JAPANESE CARS TODAY

The news of sight moving opening

2007-01-01T12:00:00.000+09:00

It moves in new address.

JAPANESE CARS TODAY [Japanese]
http://jpcars.blog83.fc2.com/

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http://jpcarstoday.blog86.fc2.com/

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TOYOTA Yaris Production Scheduled to Start in China in Mid-2008

2006-12-28T12:50:00.000+09:00

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today that Guangzhou Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. (GTMC), a joint vehicle production and sales company established with Guangzhou Automobile Group Co., Ltd. (Guangzhou Automobile) in China in 2004, is scheduled to begin production of the Yaris (known as the Vitz in Japan) in mid-2008. The Yaris, whose annual production volume is expected to be approximately 80,000-90,000 units, will mark the second vehicle series to be produced by GTMC, following the Camry, which went into production in May this year.

In line with its planned production of the Yaris, GTMC is set to increase its capital by 49 million U.S. dollars (approx. 5.7 billion yen).

Market needs in China are diversifying as the "motorization" of the country continues, and, thus, calls for more-fuel-efficient, economical compact vehicles are on the rise. The decision to produce and market the Yaris in China is an effort to meet these customer needs.

As a world-class production plant, GTMC not only features the latest advanced equipment for helping to maintain strict quality standards throughout all of its vehicle-production processes, it is also making considerable efforts to keep noise to a minimum, appropriately treat wastewater, recycle waste materials and use environmentally considerate materials under its corporate policy to be a "pioneer in environmental preservation and a good corporate citizen in China". GTMC has also been actively training personnel at its engineering training center, which was established in January 2005.

Meanwhile, the GTMC-produced Camry is set to exceed its initial sales plan of 50,000 units by the end of the year by approximately 7,000 units.

Outline of GTMC
Company name Guangzhou Toyota Motor Co., Ltd. (GTMC)

Location Guangzhou Nansha Economic and Technological Development Zone, Guangdong, PRC

Representatives President: Toru Kuzuhara

Executive vice president: Yuan Zhongrong

Establishment September 1, 2004

Duration of joint venture 30 years

Capitalization 1.3 billion yuan RMB (approx. 17.3 billion yen)

Equity participation Guangzhou Automobile: 50%; TMC: 30.5%; Toyota Motor China

Investment (TMCI): 19.5%

Number of employees Approx. 3,500

Land area 1,900,000m2

Product lineup Camry

Production capacity 200,000 units/year (from October 2006)

Start of production May 2006

NISSAN OPENS NEW FLAGSHIP DEALER

2006-12-26T12:35:00.000+09:00

- New store in Murayama will showcase latest Nissan brand identity, offer huge selection of used vehicles -

TOKYO (December 26, 2006)—Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced the opening of its latest megastore for used-cars, “Carminal Tokyo”, and a brand new dealership called “Tokyo Nissan—Shinsha no Hiroba” in Murayama. The two dealerships will showcase Nissan's new dealership visual identity to better serve customers. The new stores are located on a 40,000m2 site, built on a former company facility, the Nissan Murayama plant.

Carminal Tokyo will be operated by Nissan Used-Car Center Co., Ltd., a company wholly owned by Nissan. The official opening is scheduled for January 3, 2007. “Tokyo Nissan-Shinsha no Hiroba” had started operations from November 24, 2006. Both dealerships boast a combined area of 40,000 m2; a shopping center is located adjacent to the new facility, providing further retailing for customers. The opening of the dedicated vehicle park is expected to draw more traffic to Murayama and contribute to the revitalization of the local community.

1. Carminal Tokyo
Carminal Tokyo is designed to offer a specialized environment for customers looking for a used-car. The used-car outlet and its customer advisors are trained to cater to the specific needs of the used-car customer, such as model selection, quality questions and after-sales support, in addition to providing special attention and assistance to first-time buyers.
Spacious facility
Carminal Tokyo covers 33,500m2, showcasing up to 1,000 used cars. It also includes a large-scale service area and a test-drive course.
Wide ranging selection of car models
Carminal Tokyo will provide a wide ranging selection of used car models, including non-Nissan brand vehicles. A choice of car accessories including navigation and audio systems, are also available, and can be installed at the service area. The facility’s broad menu of services also includes government-mandated vehicle inspections and road-tests.
New purchasing method
a) A fixed “one price” that assures all customers of a great value deal.
b) On-demand customer service, to cater to each individual customer’s specific needs and requests.
c) A friendly, comfortable and relaxing environment for customers and their families including a children’s play area.

2. “Tokyo Nissan—Shinsha no Hiroba” at Murayama
This 6,500m2 facility can house the entire range of Nissan products under one roof and includes a full-service workshop. The dealership and showroom layout has been designed to make the shopping and purchasing experience easy and stress-free for customers.

Note: CARMINAL combines the word “car” with “terminal” to express Nissan’s ambitions to create a gathering point for people and cars and a launch pad for our customer’s mobility and motoring life.

Mazda Carol Gets a Facelift

2006-12-26T12:25:00.000+09:00

- Remodeled inside and out and even more fuel efficient and eco-friendly -

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation has given the Carol, one of its micro-mini vehicles for the Japanese market, a fresh new look. The Carol has been a popular model with women due to its charming design and practicality, and this freshened version goes on sale nationwide at all Mazda Autozam, Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers from today.

The upgraded Carol features a modified front end, seats and door trim design, together with improved fuel economy and eco-friendliness. Two new body colors have also been added as options: Antique Rose Metallic and Lime Green Metallic.

The target sales volume for the entire Carol model range is 800 units a month.

Mazda Carol X (FWD model with 4-speed automatic transmission)

Main features of the upgraded Carol
- Redesigned front bumper with integrated grille (all grades)
- Separated headlights and turn indicators as part of its new design (all grades)
- Blacked-out A-pillars and door sashes (X grade)
- Tea-colored material used for seat upholstery and door trim (all grades)
- The freshened Carol qualifies for Japan’s Green Tax reductions by being certified SU-LEV (because it emits 75 percent fewer exhaust emissions than the levels prescribed by Japan’s 2005 emissions standard) and by exceeding the 2010 fuel economy standard by 10-20 percent (all FWD models and the 4WD G II with 5-speed MT).
- Two new colors, Antique Rose Metallic and Lime Green Metallic, bring the full range of available body colors up to eight.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices
811,650 ~ 1,134,000

Toyota Announces Results for November 2006

2006-12-25T12:50:00.000+09:00

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today the production, sales in Japan and export results of TMC and subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. and Hino Motors, Ltd., for November 2006.

November 2006 Highlights

PRODUCTION IN JAPAN
Toyota
Fifteenth consecutive month of increase and a record high for the month of November
Daihatsu
Ninth consecutive month of increase and a record high for the month of November
Hino
Decrease
Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
Fifteenth consecutive month of increase and a record high for the month of November

SALES IN JAPAN
Toyota
Decrease
49.4% share of market, excluding minivehicles, and a record high for a single month
5,063 units in sales of Lexus vehicles
Daihatsu
First increase in two months
29.4% share of the minivehicle market
Hino
Decrease
28.7% share of the truck market
Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
Decrease
43.1% share of market, including minivehicles

EXPORTS
Toyota
Twelfth consecutive month of increase
Daihatsu
Ninth consecutive month of increase
Hino
Eleventh consecutive month of increase
Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino
Twelfth consecutive month of increase

OVERSEAS PRODUCTION
Toyota
Fifty-ninth consecutive month of increase, due to increased production in almost all regions, and a record high for the month of November
Daihatsu
First increase in seventeenth months, due to increased production in Indonesia
Toyota + Daihatsu
Fifty-ninth consecutive month of increase and a record high for the month of November

Honda Sets Monthly Record for Worldwide, Japan Domestic, and Overseas Auto production

2006-12-25T12:40:00.000+09:00

TOKYO, Japan, December 25, 2006– Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced its automobile production, Japan domestic sales, and export results for the month of November 2006.

For the sixteenth consecutive month since August 2005, worldwide production increased in November over the same month a year ago. Honda achieved a new record for the month of November.

Due to an increase in production for overseas markets, Japan domestic production experienced a year-on-year increase for the sixth consecutive month since June 2006. Honda achieved a new record for the month of November.

Due mainly to production increases in North America and Asia, overseas production increased compared to the same month a year ago for the sixteenth consecutive month since August 2005. Honda achieved a new record for overseas production for the month of November, including record production in North America. Production in Asia also set an all-time record for any month.

Total domestic sales increased compared to the same month a year ago for the first time in the last two months since September 2006.

Due to decreased sales of Air Wave and Step Wagon, new vehicle registrations in November experienced a year-on-year decline for the eighth consecutive month since April 2006.

Due mainly to an increase in sales of Zest, mini-vehicle sales increased compared to the same month a year ago for the first time in the last two months since September 2006.

Fit was the industry’s fourth best selling car among new vehicle registrations for the month of November, with sales of 7,350 units. Step Wagon ranked as the industry’s sixth best selling car among new vehicle registrations for the month of November, with sales of 5,826 units.

Life was the industry’s fifth best selling car among mini vehicles, with sales of 7,823 units, and ranked as Honda’s best selling car for the month of November. Zest was the industry’s tenth best selling vehicle among mini vehicles for the month of November, with sales of 5,170 units.

Due primarily to an increase in exports to North America, total exports increased over the same month a year ago for the sixth consecutive month since June 2006.

Nissan Production, Sales and Export Results for Nov. 2006

2006-12-25T12:36:00.000+09:00

TOKYO (Dec. 25, 2006)--Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced its production, sales and export figures for November.

1.Production
Nissan’s global production fell year-on-year by 1.1% to 291,737 units.

Japan’s production of the all-new Infiniti G35 (Skyline in Japan), Tiida and Tiida Latio rose year-on-year. However, lower production of other models pushed overall domestic production down from the previous year, with output falling 4.9% to 106,163 units.

Overseas production rose year-on-year for the second month in a row, rising 1.3% to 185,574 units. US production fell year-on-year by 6.9% to 64,762 units. In Mexico, production rose significantly year-on-year, rising 18.5% to 39,529 units, due to strong sales of the all-new Sentra and Versa (Tiida in Japan).

In the UK, production rose 5.3% year-on-year to 28,009 units. Production in Spain rose 9.6% year-on-year to 22,079 units due to robust demand for light commercial vehicles, such as the Navara and Primastar. In Nissan’s General Overseas Markets (all markets excluding Japan, the US, and Europe), production decreased 7.0% year-on-year to 31,195 units.

2.Sales
Although sales were strong for the all-new Skyline released in November, registrations fell 14.5% to 41,850 units, dropping for the 14th straight month, amid lower sales of other models.

Despite strong sales by mini-vehicles such as the all-new Otti and Moco, Nissan’s domestic sales (including mini-vehicles) fell by 6.3% to 53,205 units, amid lower sales of other models. Nissan’s market share of registrations in Japan stood at 14.6%, down 1.4 percentage points compared with the previous year. Its market share including mini-vehicles fell 0.5 percentage points from the previous year to 11.8%.

Despite the contribution to sales growth by the all-new Versa (Tiida in Japan), all-new Altima and all-new Infiniti G35, sales in the US fell 1.6% to 76,015 units due to lower sales of other models.

In Europe, sales rose 25.3% year-on-year to 42,950 units.

3.Japan Exports
Nissan’s exports stood at 56,368 units which was maintained at the same level as November 2005.
Shipments to North America fell 1.0% to 23,939 units.
Exports to Europe fell 50.8% year-on-year to 3,982 units.

NISSAN’S HR15DE ENGINE COMBINED WITH XTRONIC CVT AVAILABLE IN SIX COMPACT CARS

2006-12-25T12:35:00.000+09:00

- Environmentally friendly technology delivers higher fuel efficiency and lower emissions -

TOKYO (Dec. 25, 2006)--Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., will introduce its latest generation upgraded 1.5 liter HR15DE engine and XTRONIC CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) in six new compact cars, delivering increased fuel efficiency, reduced CO2 and cleaner exhaust emissions. The six compacts are the Cube, Cube Cubic, Note, Tiida, Tiida Latio and Wingroad and are being launched on December 25, 2006.

These six compact cars qualify for the highest level of tax incentives*1 under Japan’s Green Taxation which stipulates at least 20% improvement above 2010 Fuel Economy Standards and 75% below 2005 Exhaust Emission Standards (SU-LEV).

These new improved models feature the latest fuel efficiency technologies such as “neutral idle control” achieved through the coordinated control of the engine in tandem with the XTRONIC CVT. Additionally, an alternator regenerative control mechanism increases fuel economy as much as 6%.

The six compacts introduced with the improved powertrain technology are consistent with the objectives set under the Nissan Green Program 2010. Under the plan, Nissan had outlined its plans to reduce the impact on the environment by lowering CO2 emissions from tailpipes and minimizing exhaust emissions. Nissan plans to accelerate widespread application of environmentally friendly technologies across its global vehicle portfolio, including further improvements in engine fuel economy, wider application of CVTs, and greater integration of engine-CVT coordinated control technology.

Mazda Production and Sales Results for November 2006

2006-12-25T12:25:00.000+09:00

Mazda’s production and sales results for November 2006 show that domestic production has exceeded that for the same month in the previous year for 13 consecutive months since November 2005. Export figures have also exceeded those from the same month in the previous year for 16 consecutive months since August 2005. November 2006 was the single best month for both domestic production and exports in the last ten years.

I. Domestic Production
Due to increased production volumes of CX-7, Mazda3 and Mazda5, domestic production volumes exceeded those for the same month last year, up 3.5% on November 2005. The Hofu Plant had a monthly production record of 47,771 units in November, which is a 4.6% increase over the same period last year.

II. Domestic Sales
Domestic sales volumes decreased year-on-year, down 5.6%. Due to steady sales of Mazda3 and Verisa, registered passenger vehicle sales increased (up +0.2%) for the first time in 17 months since June 2005. Mazda’s registered vehicle market share in Japan was 5.3% (up +0.1 points over November 2005), with a 2.0% market share (-0.4 points) for the micro-mini segment and a 4.1% total market share, down 0.1 points compared to last year’s result.

III. Exports
November 2006 exports exceeded those of November 2005, up 14.8% year-on-year due to increased Mazda3 and CX-7 exports. On a market basis, exports to North America were strong, reaching 25,638 units (up 51.9% year-on-year), mostly attributable to increased exports of the Mazda3 and CX-7.

IV. Overseas Production
Note: Overseas production units are calculated based on the parts and component shipments for Mazda brand models to be assembled at overseas production facilities.

Overseas production was down 6.6% year-on-year. Although overseas production of the BT-50 truck remained steady at 7,216 units (up 23.0% year-on-year), overseas production of the Mazda6 and Mazda3 declined. On a country basis, production of the BT-50 truck in Thailand was steady at 3,816 units, up 10.1% compared to November 2005.

Mitsubishi Motors Announces Production, Sales and Exports for November 2006

2006-12-25T12:19:00.000+09:00

Tokyo, December 25, 2006 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today announced global production, as well as domestic sales and export results for November 2006.
Total global production came in at 118,726 units, a small decline of 3.3 percent from a year ago period. Japanese production increased 13.2 percent year-on-year to 71,685 units. This is due to increase in production volume of U.S. "Outlander", European "Outlander" and European "Pajero".

Total vehicle sales in Japan reached 21,289 units, slight 0.8 percent increase from last year's figure, marking the nineteenth consecutive month of year-on-year sales gains due to contribution of new models such as "i", "eK-Wagon" and "Pajero". Registered vehicles charted sales of 5,939 units, 74.5 percent of the year-ago figure. Mini-car sales continued year-on-year growth of 15,350 units, 116.9 percent of the total for November 2005. Total sales for passenger cars increased 11.3 percent year-on-year to 15,730 units, while commercial vehicle sales dropped to 5,559 units, 20.3 percent less than the same period last year.

Overseas production totaled 47,041 units, 79.1 percent of the year-ago figure. European production increased 11.2 percent to 7,126 units of last year's total due to continued favorable sales of "Colt CZC" Cabriolet. North American production came in to 8,510units, year-on-year of 99.3 percent. Asian production totaled 27,652 units, a 29.8 percent decline from November 2005's levels, representing continued weakness in Asian markets such as Malaysia and Taiwan, where economic conditions are not favorable for the industry.

Total exports from Japan increased to 43,264 units, 145.6 percent of the year-ago level. Exports to Europe increased to 14,612 units, 154.4 percent of the level seen last year due to launch of new "Pajero" and "Outlander" models in the European market. Exports to Asia came to 2,007 units, 57.5 percent of the last-year period. Exports to North America rose to 5,964 units, 229.6 percent of the November 2005 total due to continued healthy orders of the new "Outlander" model in the U.S. market.

Toyota President K. Watanabe's address at year-end press conference

2006-12-22T12:51:00.000+09:00

President Katsuaki Watanabe’s address at TMC’s year-end press conference on December 22nd is available.

Toyota Announces Sales/Production Plans for 2007

2006-12-22T12:50:00.000+09:00

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today its CY2007 sales and production plans, described in the tables below.

Mazda Unveils Special Edition Roadster for the Japanese Market

2006-12-22T12:26:00.000+09:00

- Premium sport ‘Blaze Edition’ roadster features extensive quality enhancements inside and out -
HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch of the special edition Mazda Roadster Blaze Edition for the Japanese domestic market. Mazda’s world-renowned lightweight, open-top sports car has been newly outfitted with top-quality interior and exterior features. The Blaze Edition soft-top model goes on sale from today at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers throughout Japan, with the Power Retractable Hard Top (PRHT) version following in April 2007.

Mazda Roadster Blaze Edition (soft-top RS model with six-speed manual transmission)

The Roadster Blaze Edition takes its name from related words such as “sparkle,” “blinding light,” and “fiery color,” and the images they evoke. It reflects these expressive words in its exterior, which has been enhanced by the addition of special parts, such as forged alloy wheels, which were produced by BBS Japan Co. Ltd. The Blaze Edition also features many chrome and clear parts and an exclusive deep wine-red body color, Radiant Ebony Mica. In contrast, a combination of sand beige and black leather is used extensively for the interior. Accented with various alloy parts to maximize the high-quality feel, the Blaze Edition is both sporty and elegant.

The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (including consumption tax) for the soft-top models are 2,840,000 yen for the six-speed manual transmission (MT) version and 2,870,000 yen for the six-speed automatic transmission (AT) version. The prices for the Power Retractable Hard Top models are 3,040,000 yen for the six-speed MT version and 3,135,000 yen for the six-speed AT version.

Main features of the Roadster Blaze Edition
Base models
Roadster (soft-top model) RS six-speed MT and VS six-speed AT
Roadster Power Retractable Hard Top RS RHT six-speed MT and VS RHT six-speed AT [all with 2.0-liter DOHC engine/ front-engine, rear wheel drive (RWD)]

Special equipment
Exterior
- Forged 17-inch alloy wheels which were made by BBS Japan Co. Ltd.
These wheels were exclusively designed with a chrome finish for maximum impact. Lighter than the base model roadster’s wheels, they contribute to improved driving performance. (N.B. The 6-speed AT grade features both an increased diameter ‘inch-up’ wheel rims and a front strut towerbar.)
- Exclusive chrome parts
Used for side markers, front grille garnish*, outer door handle covers* and headlight bezels*
- Exclusive clear parts
Used for front indicators, side marker lenses and high-mounted brake light*
- Black cloth soft-top (soft-top model only)
- Front fog lights and fog light bezels (black)
*Note: These are standard equipment on the base models, Roadster RS RHT and VS RHT.

Interior
- Exclusive sand beige leather seats and door trim
Sand beige genuine leather seat upholstery and sand beige synthetic leather door trim
- Exclusive leather-wrapped steering wheel and parking brake covers (with beige stitching)
- Exclusive shift boot (with beige stitching; for the six-speed MT model only)
- Exclusive air vent bezel rings and dial rings (bright aluminum)
- Decoration panel (bright aluminum)
- Stainless steel scuff plates

Body colors
Radiant Ebony Mica is exclusive to the Roadster Blaze Edition. The deep green Highland Green Mica that has recently been added to the standard model color range is also available, making for a total of two color choices available for this special edition Roadster.

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices(yen)
2,840,0003,135,000

Mazda Launches Special Edition ‘Atenza’, ‘MPV’ and ‘Verisa’ Models in Japan

2006-12-22T12:25:00.000+09:00

- The second set in the Stylish Tone Series feature exclusive body colors and special interior designs -
HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch of special edition models of the Mazda Atenza, Mazda MPV and Mazda Verisa for the Japanese domestic market. All models come with an exclusive body color and interior design and go on sale nationwide at all Mazda and Mazda Anfini dealers from today. The MPV and Verisa models are also available at all Mazda Autozam dealers. The Mazda Atenza includes a choice of three body types: Sedan, Sport and Sport Wagon.

These special edition models are new additions to the Stylish Tone Series, products with a stylish atmosphere and color scheme. Their addition expands the series from the original and popular Mazda Demio Casual, Demio Sport and Mazda Axela Sport special edition models.

Mazda MPV 23C L Style (FWD model with electronically controlled 4-speed AT)

The special edition Atenza Sport and Sport Wagon are both denoted as the ‘23SS’ grade and are based on the 23S Sport model. Each have undergone styling improvements to enhance their sporty appeal and quality, including the use of black and gray seat upholstery and door trim, an exclusive jet black-colored center panel and chrome outer door handles. Additionally, a fully-adjustable power driver’s seat, rain sensing wipers and Mazda’s autolight system have been added to further elevate comfort levels. The Atenza Sedan 20ES special edition model, based on the premium 20S model with a 2.0-liter engine, boasts the features listed above as well as the exclusive Sparkling Silver Metallic body color, a black wood-grained center panel and 16-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels, which further boost the base model’s premium quality and comfort levels.

The concept for the special edition MPV 23C L Style is “adult luxury.” Enhanced from the base model 23C version through the addition of special equipment, the interior is furnished with exclusively designed half-leather seats (wine red leather and black fabric), a black wood-grained automatic transmission (AT) shift panel and front power window switch panel, chrome-finished parts, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob. When accentuated by the sparkling chrome, the chic colors and atmosphere created by the leather and wood-grained parts significantly raises the quality feel above that of the base model.

The special edition Verisa T Style builds on the leather interior features of the Verisa L model grade. The exterior is coated with the exclusive deep green Highland Green Mica body color. Also specially designed is the black and sand beige color combination in the interior, which stretches to the leather seats, door trim, instrument panel and leather-wrapped steering wheel. With these features, the T Style achieves a more radiant color tone while maintaining the Verisa’s high-quality and stylish atmosphere present in the rest of the model range.

Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices (including consumption tax):
Atenza Sport/Sport Wagon 23SS: 2,450,000 yen
Atenza Sedan 20ES: 2,260,000 yen
MPV 23C L Style: 2,600,000 yen (FWD) and 2,870,000 yen (4WD)
Verisa T Style: 1,720,000 yen (FWD) and 1,909,000 yen (e-4WD)

Main features of the Atenza Sport/Sport Wagon 23SS
Base models
Atenza Sport and Atenza Sport Wagon 23S (2.3-liter DOHC engine/FWD electronically controlled 5-speed AT)

Special equipment
- Exclusive seat and door trim
Made from plain black fabric, highlighted with blue weave and stitching
- Exclusive center stack panel (black brush lines)
The standard gray brush lines (hairline pattern) have been replaced with black lines, further increasing the quality feel
- Exclusive outer door handles (chrome finish)
- Eight-way fully-adjustable power driver’s seat with memory function
- Rain sensing wipers and autolight system

Body colors
There is a choice of four body colors that emphasize the sporty and high-quality feel. Starting with the dark blue Stormy Blue Mica, there are Snowflake White Pearl Mica, Titanium Gray Metallic II and Black Mica.

Mazda Atenza Sport 23SS (FWD model with electronically controlled 5-speed AT)

Main features of the Mazda Atenza 20ES
Base model
Atenza Sedan 20E (2.0-liter DOHC engine, FWD with electronically-controlled 5-speed AT)

Special equipment
- Center panel (black wood)
High quality black wood-grained panel (dark gray is standard)
- Exclusive 16-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels
- Exclusive outer door handles (chrome finish)
- Rain sensing wipers and autolight system
- Leather shift knob and parking brake covers
- In-dash six-disc CD changer (single disc CD player is standard)

Body colors
Sparkling Silver Metallic is available as an exclusive color to enhance the premium feel of this model. Also, from the existing Atenza range, Snowflake White Pearl Mica, Silver Contrail Metallic, Black Mica and Radiant Ebony Mica are available, making a total of five color choices.

Mazda Atenza Sedan 20ES (FWD model with electronically controlled 5-speed AT)

Main features of the MPV 23C L Style
Base models
MPV 23C (2.3-liter DOHC engine with either FWD/electronically controlled 4-speed AT or 4WD/electronically controlled 6-speed AT)

Special equipment
[Interior]
- Exclusive half-leather seats and door trim
The upholstery is a combination of wine red leather and black fabric. Wine red synthetic leather is used for the door trim.
- Black wood-grained AT shift panel and front power window switch panel
- Exclusive chrome-finish parts (Used for the door trim garnish, shift knob, inner door handles and AT shift panel)
- Leather-wrapped steering and shift knob
- LED footwell lights
- Passenger side vanity mirror (with mirror light)

[Exterior]
- LED door mirror indicator lights
- Rear roof spoiler
- 17-inch alloy wheels
- Chrome-finished outer door handles
- Dark colored chrome headlight bezels
- Clear and red combination rear lights

Body colors
Brilliant black is available as an exclusive body color. Radiant Ebony Mica and Crystal White Pearl Mica from the existing MPV vehicle range make for a total of three color options.

Main features of the Mazda Verisa T Style
Base model
Verisa L (equipped with a 1.5-liter DOHC engine with either FWD or e-4WD electronically-controlled 4-speed AT)

Special equipment
- Exclusively designed interior
The seats and steering wheel cover are a combination of sand beige and black genuine leather. The door trim is sand beige synthetic leather, and sand beige resin is used for the top part of the instrument panel.
- 15-inch alloy wheels (usually offered as a factory-installed option)

Body colors
Deep green Highland Green Mica is available as an exclusive color and it is available for the first time in Japan. Added to the Verisa’s existing color range of Radiant Ebony Mica, Icy Blue Metallic and Stormy Blue Mica, there is a total of four body color options.

Mazda Verisa T Style (FWD model with electronically-controlled 4-speed AT)

Toyota Launches New Model Blade in Japan

2006-12-21T12:50:00.000+09:00

— Toyota's Highest-class Hatchback Aims to Open Way to New Market —

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today the nationwide launch in Japan of the Blade*1 compact hatchback through "Toyota" and "Toyopet" dealers.

The Blade has been developed as a high-class hatchback for stylish adults aimed at achieving a new appeal by satisfying the pride of those in it and offering them a sense of fun with eye-catching advanced styling, as well as with the safety and comfort features and driving performance of a luxury sedan, all in an easy-to-handle size.

Blade G (front-wheel-drive vehicle)

The exterior has a deeply sculpted form that evokes an energetic feeling that expresses the vehicle's powerful driving performance and conveys a sense of high status, while meticulous attention has been paid to every detail of the interior, including materials and finishes, to create a high-quality and stylish atmosphere.

By equipping the compact body with a 2.4-liter engine, the Blade exhibits dynamic performance with power to spare, and the newly designed suspension provides superior cruising performance. In addition to its outstanding environmental performance, the vehicle also achieves safety performance at the highest levels in its class*2 through the adoption of VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and TRC (Traction Control) systems, SRS side and curtain shield airbags and driver's seat SRS knee air bags as standard on all vehicles in the series.

As the highest-class Toyota brand hatchback, the Blade seeks to appeal to the sensitivities of customers with an inclination toward refined and stylish lifestyles and is designed to pioneer a new vehicle market.
*1 Name meant to suggest an automobile with a "sharpness" that fascinates people
*2 Compared to vehicles of similar engine displacement

Sales Outline
Sales channels : "Toyota" and "Toyopet" dealers nationwide in Japan
Monthly sales targets in Japan : 3,000 units
Dealer launch events : January 6 to 8, 2007

Assembly Plant:
Iwate Plant, Kanto Auto Works, Ltd.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices
2,247,000 ～ 2,772,000

Vehicle Outline
Highly Advanced Vehicle Design
Based on the Toyota-brand design philosophy "Vibrant Clarity," the unique exterior attracts those who see it by evoking an energetic feeling that conveys a sense of powerful driving performance and high status, while the interior arouses a sense of fun for those on the inside with high quality and style.
Exterior

Deeply sculpted body structure and innovative headlight design create an exterior that conveys the advanced nature of the Blade.
The front view expresses high status through a three-dimensional structure that accentuates the center, deep bumper openings, a grille that achieves different perspectives of strength and depth with each bar, and L-shaped headlights.
The low center of gravity and the characteristic silhouette of the hatch door create a side view that imparts the Blade's vitality.
The rear view features a wide and expansive shape and distinctive elongated combination taillights that convey stability and an air of status.
High-quality paint produces a lustrous finish in body colors that highlight the presence and vigor of the exterior.
Interior

The interior seeks luxury and an exceptional tactile experience.
The suede-like leather on the door trim and instrument panel enclosure as well as the titanium finish center cluster panel and ornamentation generate a particular sense of high quality.

Enhanced Equipment that Seeks Exceptional Passenger Comfort
The seats provide comfortable seating with a good fit and feature a combination of real leather and Alcantara®*1, which is a leading international brand of suede-like artificial leather that pays meticulous attention to the quality of its feel in the pursuit of the high-quality touch of leather (G grade). This delivers not only functionality, but also a stylish and comfortable space.
A four-spoke steering wheel covered with the highest-quality leather used on Toyota brand vehicles is standard on all vehicles in the series.
The gentle illumination emanating from the large ceiling light employing three LEDs (indirect illumination) create a stylish atmosphere (G grade).
A sliding eight-way multi-adjustable power driver's seat (G grade) with a seat cushion that has separate height adjustments for its front and rear and a seamlessly variable reclining seatback is aimed at offering an optimal seating position.
The main controls, including the gear-shift lever, have been concentrated within easier reach of the driver's seat to enhance operability and functionality.
An excellent package created through the adoption of a newly developed platform allows for a spacious cabin and relaxing flat-surfaced legroom in the rear, while also achieving superb handling.
The rear seats, equipped with a reclining function, have backrests that fold in a 60/40 split and a single-motion tilt-down mechanism that allows both the seat cushions and the backrests to easily fold and stow away, creating an expansive and flat cargo space.
An automatic air-conditioner with a pollen-removal mode filters out pollen, dust and other impurities from the air. An additional air conditioning vent is incorporated at the top of the center instrument cluster to enhance comfort throughout the vehicle. G grade vehicles feature fully automatic independent temperature controls for the driver's and passenger's side and also adopts Plasmacluster Ions®*2, an air-cleaning technology, which fills the cabin with refreshing air characterized by an optimal ratio of positive and negative ions.
The Smart Entry & Start System employs a key that does not need to be pulled out to lock and unlock the doors, as well as a push button for starting the engine.
The advanced Intelligent Parking Assist system, optional on G grade vehicles with a navigation system (manufacturer's option), supports steering operations when parallel parking and backing into a parking space. Ultrasonic sensors installed on the front of the vehicle detect other parked vehicles and based on the results estimate the physical dimensions of a vacant parking space and set the target parking position.
The HAC (Hill-start Assist Control) function prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards when starting up on a hill and allows for smooth acceleration.
*1 "Alcantara" is a registered trademark of Toray Industries, Inc.
*2 "Plasmacluster Ions" is a registered trademark of Sharp Corporation.

Outstanding Cruising Performance that Provides Comfortable Driving
The 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine achieves high torque at low and medium speeds combined with smooth acceleration performance at high speeds for ample power as well as excellent fuel efficiency.
The newly designed suspension adopts a newly developed double wishbone-type in the rear for outstanding handling, superior cruising stability, and a comfortable ride at all speeds and on all road surfaces.
A fuel-saving Super CVT-i (Continuously Variable Transmission-intelligent) which contributes to a smoother driving experience is combined with a highly responsive, seven-speed Sports Sequential Shiftmatic transmission that provides the feel of a manual transmission, thereby greatly heightening the "fun to drive" quotient.
A high-rigidity body construction also contributes to ensuring brisk handling, cruising stability and riding comfort.
The four-wheel large-diameter disk brakes provide excellent braking performance and feature superior control with a high-quality braking feeling.
Road noise and engine noise have been reduced by the optimal distribution of vibration-controlling, sound-absorbing and sound-blocking materials, delivering a quiet cabin space on par with that of a high-class sedan.

Safety and Environmental Performance at the Top of its Class
Enhanced safety equipment provides peace of mind.
The VSC (Vehicle Stability Control) and TRC (Traction Control) systems, SRS side and curtain shield airbags, and a driver's seat SRS knee airbag come standard on all vehicles in the series.
The GOA (Global Outstanding Assessment) construction has been further evolved to create an advanced collision-safety body structure. During collision tests under stricter-than-normal standards, the speed was set at 55km/h, and the vehicle was subjected to omni-directional, vehicle-to-vehicle collision tests with a vehicle up to the 2-ton range. Through the use of a body that effectively absorbs collision impact by diffusing it throughout its structure, Toyota satisfied all independent targets for survival space and occupant injury.
The pedestrian-injury-lessening body structure has been evolved to further reduce pedestrian head injuries, pursuing a class-top level of protection.
The front-seat structures are based on the WIL (Whiplash Injury Lessening) concept and come with stronger seat frames and greater backrest give. They were designed based on analyses using THUMS (Total Human Model for Safety), incorporating a structural design that reduces stress on the neck during low-speed rear impact.
All vehicles in the series have been certified as having emissions levels 75% lower than the 2005 standards under the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's Approval System for Low-emission Vehicles. Two-wheel-drive vehicles also achieve the Japanese 2010 fuel efficiency standards specified by the Japanese Law Concerning the Rational Use of Energy.
Eco-VAS (Eco-Vehicle Assessment System)—Toyota's original comprehensive environmental impact assessment system—was implemented to achieve the overall reduction of environmental impact throughout the vehicle's entire lifecycle as efficiently as possible. Environmental targets were set in the vehicle development stage and a life cycle assessment was carried out, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions and other atmospheric pollutants, not just during the use stage, but also through all stages of the vehicle's life, from manufacture to disposal.
A review of the materials, processing methods and adhesives used for interior parts resulted in a reduction in the amount of VOCs (volatile organic compounds) used, thereby also reducing the discomforting odors emitted from such compounds.
An Eco Drive Indicator lights up when the vehicle is being efficiently operated to raise the driver's awareness of environmentally considerate driving and contribute to higher fuel efficiency.

Nissan investigation concerning customer information

2006-12-21T12:35:00.000+09:00

On October 30th 2006, the Japanese weekly magazine “The Weekly Asahi” ran a story concerning the leak of a database containing personal information on Nissan customers. Although Nissan was unable to obtain a copy of the alleged database from the magazine, the company has conducted a thorough investigation of this matter. The following is a summary of the key findings:

Based on the limited information supplied by the magazine, Nissan has been unable to match that database with one that exists inside the company.
Although the alleged outside database does not match with our own internal database, our investigation has identified certain matching items that could have only been sourced from inside the company.
Based on our extensive research, Nissan has been able to identify that certain internal data may have been sourced from an old customer database. These findings are supported through vehicle model codes (model type, base, class etc.) that are exclusively used inside the company.
From the data investigations, we have concluded that the most likely timing for the leak to have occurred was between May 2003 and February 2004.
Nissan’s investigations have been conducted through the engagement of a third-party research company. Based on our findings and available information, we have taken the precautionary measure to notify all potentially affected customers whose information could have been found on this old database. Accordingly, Nissan has sent letters to 5,379,909 customers clarifying the situation and apologizing for any inconvenience caused.

Nissan security measures
In 2005 a new Japanese law concerning protection of personal information was legislated. Nissan has implemented a range of operational measures in full compliance with the new law that include limitations on authorized users of customer data, full records of all access made to databases and special security encoding of the data.

In January 2006, Nissan replaced its entire customer database to ensure the complete management and protection of customer information based upon a higher level of security system.

During 2007, Nissan will implement a range of additional security measures further enhancing level of protection of personal information, on top of measures that has ensured full compliance with the laws governing the protection of customer data enacted in 2005. These measures include:

Physical security systems including camera monitoring of secure areas and tracking of personnel access to designate secure areas.
System counter measures including sophisticated software monitoring systems of databases and the tracking of all access made to the database.
Organizational changes including a new internal organization responsible for management of customer information and education programs for all Nissan employees concerning management of classified information.
Nissan has taken the necessary actions to fully comply with the "Law Protecting Personal Information" since its legislation in 2005. Following the recent review of our systems, Nissan is continuously enforcing its security management systems to ensure the complete protection and security of its databases. All Nissan employees are committed to ensuring the highest levels of information protection and security for our customers.

Nissan Introduces All-New AD/AD Expert Models

2006-12-20T12:35:00.000+09:00

Tokyo(Dec. 20, 2006) -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today announced the all-new AD and Expert. Both models will go on sale in the Japanese market on January 19, 2007.

AD 1.5VE

AD Expert 1.8LX

The new AD will be priced from 1,218,000 yen to 1,357,650 yen and the AD Expert from 1,396,500 yen to 1,757,700 yen. Nissan targets monthly sales of 3,200 units. The current lineup of 4WD models will be continued until late 2008 when they will be replaced by the new 4WD models. Nissan will also continue the 1.5-liter manual-transmissioned models and the CNG model powered by compressed natural gas.

Major features
The new AD and AD Expert have been developed with a wide variety of business needs in mind. The cockpit area has numerous storage places and innovative features, including a folding table that facilitates the use of a laptop PC in the cabin. Loading and unloading of cargo is also made easy by the wide and high back door opening and low floor height. Further, with class-leading cargo compartment length, height as well as the width between the wheelhousings, the AD and AD Expert have the versatility of carrying cargo of a wide variety of sizes and shapes. Both vans also come with advanced powertrains, including the HR15DE engine that delivers strong low-to medium-range torque, improved quietness and enhanced fuel economy, and the MR18DE engine that provides a powerful driving performance. The suspension system has been specifically tuned to provide a smooth, comfortable ride, whether the vehicle is empty or fully laden.

Safety and environmental performance
All GX and VX grade models come with a driver's side SRS airbag system as standard safety equipment. Models fitted with the CR12DE engine or the HR15DE engine are certified as Super Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles (SU-LEVs) because they emit 75% less exhaust emissions than Japan's 2005 exhaust emission regulations. MR18DE-engine models are certified as U-LEVs, emitting 50% fewer emissions than the 2005 exhaust emission standards. Models fitted with the CR12DE engine or the MR18DE engine are 10% more fuel efficient than Japan's 2010 fuel economy standards, and those equipped with the HR15DE engine over achieve the standards by 20%, thereby qualifying for tax incentives under the Green Tax program of Japan.

HONDA　Summary of 2006 Year-End CEO Speech

2006-12-19T12:43:00.000+09:00

--- Accelerate our effort to strengthen the core characteristics that make Honda unique and proactively pursue creation of advanced technologies and products that represents the uniqueness of Honda ---

TOKYO, Japan, December 19, 2006– Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced that it would further accelerate its effort to strengthen the core characteristics that make Honda unique in each business area in order to continue creating new value and providing products and services which are beyond customers’ expectations. Toward this end, Honda will steadily make progress with plans and initiatives in the following three areas, which Honda first announced in May.

1) Establishing advanced manufacturing systems and capabilities
2) Strengthening the foundation for overseas growth
3) Accelerating Honda’s effort to reduce environmental footprint

Estimated 2006 Worldwide Sales
Honda expects to achieve all-time record sales in all three product areas.
Motorcycles: 12.7 million units (up 3% from 2005)
Automobiles: 3.55 million units (up 5% from 2005)
Power Products: 6.4 million units (up 15% from 2005)

Automobile Business in Japan
· 2006 sales forecast: 700,000 units (down 2% from 2005).

· Ever since the three domestic sales channels were integrated into a single network in March this year, sales of mini-vehicles as well as models which had been sold exclusively by each channel have increased. Honda recognizes this increase as a result of sales channel reform which was carried out to maximize customer joy and satisfaction.

· In spring 2007, Honda will launch a new model which offers new value for the customer by integrating the design and mobility of an SUV and the functionality of seven-passenger seating. In addition to the introduction of this new vehicle, Honda is planning to further strengthen the appeal of its products.

· For its mini-vehicle business, Honda will further strengthen its collaboration with Yachiyo Industry Co., Ltd. to develop highly competitive products and to strengthen Honda’s overall business capabilities in this category.

Motorcycle Business in Japan
· 2006 sales forecast: 350,000 units (down 5% from 2005).

· In 2007, Honda will continue leading the industry in both environmental and safety performance by making progress in installing fuel injection system to scooters sold in Japan and by introducing the Gold Wing equipped with an air bag.

· Honda will further strengthen the foundation of its motorcycle business and continue promoting the attractiveness of motorcycles by increasing the number of “Honda Dream” dealerships, which meet the diverse needs of customers, from the current 81 sites to a network of more than 100 sites by the end of 2007.

Establishing Advanced Manufacturing Systems and Capabilities

1) By achieving the world’s top level of resource/energy efficiency, Honda will build a “resource/energy-recycling Green Factory” which will reduce the amount of CO2 emitted per automobile produced by 20% compared to the level of 2000.

2) The Yorii Plant will be a state-of-the-art plant which will respond quickly to diversifying customer needs by employing high quality and highly efficient production and logistics systems.

3) The Yorii Plant will be a people-friendly plant where every associate will be able to fully demonstrate their unique characteristics and skills, fostering world-class experts and creating an environment where every associate feels joy and pride in their work.

· Demand for fuel efficient automobiles is growing faster than expected in every part of the world. Taking this into account, Honda has decided to build a new engine plant in Ogawa, Saitama, near Yorii, prior to the production start of the Yorii automobile plant in order to establish production systems and capabilities that will enable Honda to respond flexibly to increases in demand.

· The annual production capacity of this new engine plant will be approximately 200,000 units. Honda plans to begin production at the new plant in summer 2009. Advanced engines produced at this plant will be supplied to Honda auto plants inside and outside of Japan. Related investment for this engine plant is expected to be approximately 25 billion yen, with employment expected to be approximately 500 associates.

· In order to further advance our technologies and know-how in the production of motorcycles of all sizes and to strengthen our system to evolve such technologies and know-how to other Honda plants around the world, Honda will concentrate all domestic motorcycle production to Kumamoto Factory with a target schedule by the end of 2009.

· At Hamamatsu Factory, we will further strengthen production of automatic transmissions, where demand is growing on a global scale. Especially, the production of transmission gears which require a high level of manufacturing technologies will be strengthened so that Honda will handle major portion of the increased production volume in-house in the future.

· In addition to the reorganization of Honda’s R&D structure which was carried out in April this year, Honda will build a new R&D center in Sakura, Tochigi targeted to begin operation in 2009.

Strengthening the Foundation for Overseas Growth

· 2006 U.S. sales forecast: 1.51 million units (up 3% from 2005, an all-time record for the 10th consecutive year).

· 2007 U.S. sales plan: 1.56 million units (up 3%from 2006)

· An all-new Accord will go on sale in fall 2007. In addition, a concept model for the all-new Accord Coupe will be revealed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2007.

· The design concept model for a next-generation sports car, which will represent the Acura brand, will be revealed at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January 2007.

· In summer 2007, the Acura Design Center, currently under construction, will open in Los Angeles.

· Beginning in spring 2007, production of the Civic will be expanded by adding production at Plant 2 in Canada to the current production of Civic in Plant 1 in Canada and at the East Liberty Plant in Ohio.

· In fall 2007, the Honda plant in Mexico will begin production of the CR-V.

· A new auto plant in Indiana and a new engine plant in Canada are scheduled to begin production in 2008.

· 2006 sales forecast: 310,000 units (up 8% from 2005, an all-time record for the third consecutive year)

· 2007 sales plan: 350,000 units (up 13% from 2006)

· Sales of the all-new CR-V will begin in January 2007, and Civic Type-R is planned to go on sale in spring 2007.

· At the end of 2007, production at the UK plant will reach 250,000 units annually making full utilization of the plant’s production capacity. Combined with the capacity of 50,000 units at the plant in Turkey, Honda’s total annual auto production capacity in Europe will be 300,000 units.

· To accommodate growing demand for motorcycles in the region, Honda expanded motorcycle production capacity in India, the Philippines and Pakistan in 2006, and further capacity expansion is planned in countries such as India and Vietnam in 2007.

· 2006 automobile sales forecast: 320,000 units (up 4% from 2005, an all-time record for the 4th consecutive year)

· 2007 automobile sales plan: 360,000 units (up 13% from 2006)

· Annual automobile production capacity in India will be doubled to 100,000 units by the end of 2007. With a plan to introduce a small-size vehicle and construction of a second auto plant, Honda aims to produce and sell more than 150,000 units of automobiles in India by the end of 2010.

· Honda will expand annual production capacity of its motorcycle plant in Brazil from the current 1 million units to 1.35 million units in early 2007, and further to 1.5 million units by the end of 2007.

· Honda will double production capacity of its automobile plant in Brazil to 100,000 units by mid-2007.

· 2006 sales forecast: 320,000 units (up 23% from 2005, an all-time record for the 7th consecutive year since its’ local production started)

· When Guangzhou Honda’s second auto plant became operational in September 2006, Honda’s total automobile production capacity in China reached 530,000 units including production at export plant.

· The export plant, Honda Automobile (China), which produces Jazz for European markets will fully utilize its annual production capacity of 50,000 units by spring 2007.

· A new company, which will manufacture and supply transmissions and other engine components to Honda plants in China, will become operational in spring 2007. With this, Honda will further strengthen local automobile production in China.

· Guangzhou Honda began study toward the establishment of an automobile R&D center for further business growth.

Strengthening Honda’s Commitment to Reduce its Environmental Footprint
· With new technologies such as advanced VTEC and VCM for automobiles and “super-low friction engines” for motorcycles, Honda will achieve further improvement of fuel efficiency and cleaner tailpipe emissions .

· Application of hybrid technology will be expanded to a smaller size vehicle. Honda will offer a new dedicated hybrid vehicle in 2009 at a price level lower than the globally popular Civic Hybrid.

· Application of diesel technology will be expanded to a medium-to-large size vehicle. Honda will introduce “super-clean diesel engine” that will meet the stringent U.S. Tier‡UBIN5 emission standard, which reduces exhaust gas emissions to a level equal to a gasoline engine, in the U.S. market within the next three years. Honda will consider introducing this engine in Japan as well.

· In November this year, Honda began sales in Brazil of automobiles equipped with a flexible fuel vehicle (FFV) system, which enables gasoline engine-based power plants to operate on a wide range of ethanol-gasoline fuel mixtures between 20% to 100% ethanol. The Civic FFV went on sale in November and the Fit FFV in December.

· As for the development of technology which will more efficiently produce ethanol from stems and leaves of plants such as straw, an experimental plant will be built within Honda’s Fundamental Technology Research Center in Wako in 2007 in order to work toward establishment of the mass-production technology of bio-ethanol in the future.

· Compact, a home-use cogeneration unit, which has been sold roughly 40,000 units in Japan since its introduction in 2003, will be sold in U.S. from next year. (the first home-use cogeneration unit to be sold in the U.S.)

· A new solar cell subsidiary, Honda Soltec Co., Ltd., was established earlier this month. This company will begin full-scale sales of solar cells when mass production begins at the new plant in Kumamoto in fall 2007. Through production and sales of environmentally-friendly and sustainable energy, Honda will further contribute to the effort to prevent global warming.

· A mass production model based on the technology and design of the FCX Concept will become available for lease sales in 2008 in Japan and the U.S.

· As for hydrogen generation technologies, Honda will further advance the Home Energy Station which produces hydrogen from natural gas, as well as the solar cell based Hydrogen Station, which Honda has already begun testing in the U.S.

Honda will continue to be the leader in the effort to reduce its environmental footprint by accelerating the company’s commitment and challenges to reduce CO2 emissions through innovation of engine technologies and production of clean energy.

HondaJet
· Honda has been receiving far more orders than the annual production plan of 70 units. With a plan to deliver the first HondaJet to a customer in 2010, Honda is making progress in determining the location for a production plant in the U.S. and establishing a high quality sales and service network.

· In addition to the HondaJet, the HF120 Turbofan engine which was developed by the joint venture company GE Honda Aero Engines LLC, will be installed to the Spectrum Aeronautical’s “Freedom” which will go on sale in 2010. Honda will also be providing fuel efficient and highly competitive advanced engines in the world of aviation.

Motor Sports
F1:· Honda achieved a much-awaited victory in Hungary Grand Prix in August. For the 2007 season, Honda wants to meet fans’ expectations by winning the top spot on the winner’s podium more often and competing for the constructor’s title.

· Honda will strongly support the Super Aguri F1 Team by providing highly competitive engines again in the 2007 season.

· Through Mobilityland Corporation, Honda will continue negotiating toward hosting an F1 race again at Suzuka Circuit.

IRL: · Starting with the 2007 season, the IndyCar race engine will shift to 100% ethanol fuel. Honda will support the U.S. motor sports culture by providing environmentally-friendly and highly competitive engines to traditional open-wheel racing which has fans all over the U.S.

WGP: · For the top motorcycle road race series of MotoGP, Honda will aim to win the triple-crown for the second consecutive year with a new machine, the RC212V.

Renovation of Suzuka Circuit: · Honda will renovate Suzuka Circuit with the goal to achieve the further evolution of mobility and motor sports.

· A major refurbishment of the Traffic Education Center will take place, to re-open in summer 2007. With this center, Honda will contribute to achieving a safer and richer mobility society.

· In addition, the pits and paddocks on the race course will be overhauled. As one of the top-class racing circuits in the world, Suzuka Circuit will continue to host various international races and foster young racers. Through such activities, Suzuka Circuit will continue providing dreams and excitement to many motor sports fans.

Honda will further strengthen the core characteristics that make Honda unique and continue taking on challenges in the creation of advanced technologies and products that represent the uniqueness of Honda to accomplish our goal to provide our customers with even greater joy and excitement.

2006 Honda SALES & PRODUCTION FORECAST

2006-12-19T12:42:00.000+09:00

2006 Honda SALES & PRODUCTION FORECAST

Honda to Build a New Engine Plant in Japan

2006-12-19T12:41:00.000+09:00

Establishing Production Systems and Capabilities for Advanced Engines To Achieve Further Reduction of CO2 Emissions

TOKYO, Japan, December 19, 2006–Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced plans to build a new engine plant in Ogawa, Saitama prefecture, Japan in order to accelerate establishment of production systems and capabilities for advanced engines to enable Honda to meet increasing global demand for fuel efficient vehicles. Honda plans to begin operation of this new engine plant in summer 2009, with an annual production capacity of approximately 200,000 units. Advanced engines produced at this plant will be supplied to Honda auto plants inside and outside Japan. Honda will invest approximately 25 billion yen in the new plant, with employment of approximately 500 associates.

Due to a number of factors including the high price of crude oil and increasing public concern about environmental issues, demand for fuel efficient automobiles is expected to grow rapidly in the future. As for the engine production, prior to the 2010 start-up of the new auto plant to be built in Yorii, Saitama, Honda decided to build a new engine plant in Ogawa, Saitama, near Yorii, in order to establish production systems and capabilities which can meet flexibly increases in demand , to enable Honda to offer advanced engines to customers as quickly as possible.

In the mean time, Honda has disclosed the concept for the new Yorii plant, which will become operational in 2010. Honda will build the Yorii plant with the concept of “a people-friendly and resource/energy-recycling Green Factory which will employ high quality and highly efficient production and logistics systems”, and it will be a state-of-the-art automobile plant along with new engine plant.

Acura ‘Advanced Sports Car Concept’ to debut at North American International Auto Show

2006-12-19T12:40:00.000+09:00

U.S.A., December 19, 2006–The Acura ‘Advanced Sports Car Concept’ will make its debut at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The concept provides a glimpse at the next generation Acura exotic sports car.

Acura Advanced Sports Car Concept

As a part of the global commitment to the Acura brand, Honda Motor Co. Ltd.’s President and CEO Takeo Fukui will be delivering the keynote remarks at the Acura press conference.

Additional details on the Advanced Sports Car Concept will be announced on Sunday, January 7th, at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Mazda Launches New Crossover SUV Mazda CX-7 in Japan

2006-12-19T12:25:00.000+09:00

- Beautiful sports car styling skillfully blended with powerful driving performance -

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch in Japan of the new Mazda CX-7 five-seat crossover SUV (Sport Utility Vehicle). The CX-7 goes on sale nationwide at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealers from today. The monthly sales target is 380 units.

The concept for the CX-7 is a “sport crossover SUV”: the fusion of sports car and SUV. The CX-7 boasts refined and sophisticated styling that reflects its sports car roots, with satisfying power provided by a 2.3-liter direct injection turbocharged engine complemented by a six-speed Activematic transmission. From the customer’s point of view, it comes outfitted with advanced features for safety and convenience. These include Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) safety technology to help prevent lateral skidding, a parking assist system (with a side monitor and rearview guide monitor), an immobilizer and burglar alarm, a 30GB HDD navigation system, and cruise control as standard equipment.

A choice of two model grades are available, the CX-7 and CX-7 Cruising package. Both feature Mazda’s 2.3-liter MZR DISI turbocharged engine and six-speed electronically controlled automatic transmission (Activematic). Each model grade has a front-wheel drive and four-wheel drive version. The manufacturer’s suggested retail prices range from 3,060,000 yen to 3,660,000 yen (including consumption tax).

Mazda CX-7 ‘CX-7Cruising package’ grade

CX-7 Program Manager Shunsuke Kawasaki said, “The CX-7 exemplifies Mazda’s ‘Soul of a Sports car’ philosophy. It makes a clean break from conventional SUVs and, without doubt, it is a Zoom-Zoom vehicle, skillfully blending sports car verve with SUV practicality. The CX-7 brings together performance and design like never before, resulting in a vehicle that’s inviting to look at, entertaining to drive and fun to use.”

Since the CX-7 was successfully launched in the North American market in the second half of May 2006, it has enjoyed praise for its refined styling and excellent performance.

Main features of the CX-7
1. Inviting to look at - a refined, emotive design
Through the design theme, “advanced frontier,” the design team produced a vehicle with beautiful and bold sports car styling that invites onlookers to get in and drive.
Exterior
Mazda’s signature sports car identity of speed and dynamic performance, together with an SUV’s solid presence, are both clearly represented in its design.

- From the front, the sharply angled windshield and solid-looking prominent front fenders give a unique and refined impression.
- The beltline aggressively rises towards the rear and exclusively designed 18-inch aluminum wheels communicate power, while the roofline curves smoothly backward. Side windows framed in stainless steel add a highly dignified aspect to the profile.
- Strength and stability are emphasized in the rear view by the tapered cabin sitting atop broad shoulders and bold rear fenders.

Interior
The interior communicates excitement to the driver when they get behind the wheel, while the passengers are afforded a spacious, relaxing cabin.

- The instrument panel features a three-dial instrument cluster that is covered by a short ‘roof’, with another overlapping stretched ‘roof’ behind it. This double-roof structure, together with the wide center stack, enhances the sense of depth of the whole interior. Combined with the high level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that extends right down to the switches, the cockpit design reaffirms the CX-7’s sporty pedigree.
- Maximizing the sporty image, firmly contoured body-fitting front bucket seats also offer increased comfort.
- High quality leather seats, a piano black automatic transmission (AT) shifter panel and a black wood-grained center stack panel all come as standard on the CX-7 Cruising package.

Sports car-like cockpit in the ‘CX-7 Cruising package’

Body and interior colors
Including the Copper Red Mica theme color, there are a choice of nine body colors, from vivid lively tones to deep calm shades, which can suit any taste. To match the sporty exterior appearance, the interior is black (available for both fabric or leather seat upholstery).

2. Entertaining to drive – outstanding performance
The CX-7 is fun and comfortable to drive, and offers pure excitement out on the open road.

- Powered by Mazda’s specially-tuned MZR 2.3-liter Direct Injection Spark Ignition (DISI) turbocharged engine, the CX-7 powertrain delivers stable torque from 2,000 up to 4,500 rpm, a peak torque of 350 Nm, and produces 175 kW at 5,000 rpm. In addition, CX-7 offers acceleration that is among the best in its class.
- A six-speed automatic transmission (Activematic) enhances the sporty performance and comes as standard. Mazda’s electronic Active Torgue-split All-Wheel Drive System that further bolsters the CX-7’s dynamic performance is available as a factory-installed option.
- Tried and tested MacPherson struts are used for the front suspension and a multilink system is installed in the rear. Together they provide a stable ride and agile handling, while the power smoothly delivered across the gearbox supplies a responsive, balanced feel.

3. Fun to use – stylish packaging for an enviable city life
The easy-to-drive character of the CX-7, together with the spacious luggage area, ergonomic passenger seating area and full complement of interior features make even long distance journeys pleasurable.

- The driver’s seat has a 260mm long seat slide to cater to all physiques. The eight-way fully-adjustable power seat in the CX-7 Cruising package can be moved forward, back and also reclined, and the seat cushions and backs raised and lowered, all by a simple switch. This seat also includes lumbar support as standard to raise comfort levels even more.
- Major consideration was given to the size of the luggage space, and even with the rear seats upright, the luggage area volume measures 455 liters (using the VDA method). This can be further increased by using a simple lever to fold down the rear seats.
- The interior was designed for maximum storage capacity. For example, the lockable large multipurpose center console box that is positioned behind the front seat cup holders optimizes the available space and provides room for three 2-liter drink containers or an A4 paper-sized laptop computer.
- MAZDA G-BOOK ALPHA-compatible HDD navigation system, which can store up to 2,800 songs copied from CDs (up to 12GB), is standard equipment.
- A nine-speaker Bose Centerpoint® surround sound system was exclusively developed for the CX-7 (available as a factory-installed option).

4. Top class safety
Advanced safety technology and equipment creates stress-free peace of mind.

- Large diameter ventilated discs, Mazda’s 4-wheel Anti-lock Brake System (4W-ABS), Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) and Traction Control System (TCS) all come as standard on both grades and provide braking, handling and confidence among the best in its class.
- The parking assist system (with a side monitor and rearview guide monitor) is standard equipment and assists drivers to safely negotiate narrow passages and offer support when parking the vehicle.
- Mazda’s unique, rigid frame uses the Mazda Advanced Impact Distribution and Absorption System to mitigate impact force in the event of a collision and redistribute it over the entire vehicle, thereby minimizing cabin deformation.
- Based on conventional automatic speed control systems, the Mazda Radar Cruise Control System includes a milliwave radar sensor which regulates the distance to a vehicle in front. Also standard on the CX-7 Cruising package is the Mazda Pre-crash Safety System.
- Highly effective theft prevention devices such as an immobilizer and a burglar alarm system are included on both grades.

5. Positive steps to aid environmental friendliness
Building an environmentally friendly vehicle was a priority from the first stages of development.

- By increasing the use of easily recyclable polypropylene (PP), conforming to ISO-approved material indication guidelines, and designing parts that are readily dismantled, the CX-7 is over 90 percent recyclable. The use of environmental harmful substances such as lead, mercury, cadmium, and hexavalent chromium has also been drastically curtailed.
- Emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) from painting processes were curbed.
- Both grades conform to Japan’s Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (U-LEV) emissions standards (a 50 percent reduction from the 2005 standards).

Manufacturer’s suggested retail prices(yen)
With tax 3,060,000 ～　3,660,000

YAMAHA ASEAN CUP 2006 Indonesia wins both classes for second overall victory

2006-12-19T12:10:00.000+09:00

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. in cooperation with its Indonesian group companies P.T. YAMAHA INDONESIA MOTOR MANUFACTURING (YIMM) and P.T. YAMAHA MOTOR KENCANA INDONESIA (YMKI) held the Yamaha ASEAN Cup 2006 at the Pekan Raya Jakarta Circuit (Indonesia; one lap = 1,200 m) over the three days of December 15 to 17.

In this, the 4th Yamaha ASEAN Cup, riders from the five ASEAN countries of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand who had qualified in local national competitions gathered for this international race event to compete for the title of No. 1 in the ASEAN region. The riders competed in either the Expert or Novice class, with the racing conducted in a one-make format using Yamaha’s 4-stroke sporty mopeds.

On Dec. 17 (Sunday), some 20,000 spectators gathered to watch the finals for the two classes, which were competed on a two-heat basis. Due to a sudden rain shower just before the scheduled start of competition, the starting time for the first heat of the Expert Class finals had to be delayed more than 40 minutes. The result of that heat saw last year's Expert Class winner, Decha Kraisart (Thailand) ran away to victory with a 6-sec. lead over 2nd place. In the second heat, Florianus Roy (Indonesia) came from behind to grab the victory on the final lap. Having finished 2nd in the first heat, this gave Roy the overall victory in the Expert Class and made him the fourth rider in history to claim the Yamaha ASEAN Cup title.

In the Novice Class competition, Sudarmono (Indonesia) won both heats to claim the overall victory. And, in this way, the Indonesian team was able to answer the expectations of the many local fans who turned out to cheer for them by winning both classes and claiming the ASEAN Cup team title for the second time, following their victory in the competition’s first year. It has been announced that the fifth Yamaha ASEAN Cup will be held in 2007 in Malaysia, as it was in the second year of the competition.

Daihatsu Launches Fully Redesigned Mini Vehicle Mira

2006-12-18T12:45:00.000+09:00

DAIHATSU MOTOR CO., LTD. (Daihatsu) announced that the fully redesigned mini vehicle Mira will be launched in Japan on December 18.

The new Mira, the seventh generation of the series, has been completely updated, including the platform and the engine. Development sought to maintain the smart styling, space and utility that have long characterized the Mira while enhancing quality and value to a new level that far exceeds other vehicles in its class. The lineup includes two vehicle types, each with its own distinctive characteristics: the Mira, which is based on the concept of "a high quality mini vehicle for city driving," and the Mira Custom, based on the concept of a "premium personalized mini vehicle."

Mira X 2WD

Mira Custom X 2WD

The new Mira offers the following features:
1) Continued Evolution of DNA
- Styling that evokes a sense of dynamic energy and a deeply sculptured form that portrays solid strength
- Highly efficient use of space that creates a surprisingly expansive interior

2) Enhanced Small Car Value
- A package that facilitates easy ingress and egress and ease of handling, combined with a high level of utility
- Fuel efficiency of 27.0 km/l*, which is the highest for a gasoline vehicle

3) Advanced Quality
- The new Mira Custom model focuses on high quality and functionality.

*Survey by Daihatsu: As certified by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport in the 10-15 Japanese test cycle, excluding hybrid vehicles (as of November 30, 2006).

Plans call for sales of 6,000 units per month in Japan. The manufacturer's suggested retail prices range from 830,000 yen to 1,475,000 yen (excluding consumption tax).

Vehicle Outline
1) Continued Evolution of DNA

Styling that evokes a sense of dynamic energy and a deeply sculptured form that portrays solid strength

Exterior
- The dynamic and friendly styling conveys a sense of youthfulness.
- The long wheelbase that expresses stability and the hood and side view that create a dynamic silhouette convey a robust feel to give passengers a sense of safety in a vehicle with advanced styling.
- The sharp character lines that run along the sides, the sculpted relief, and the large headlights express the new Mira's vitality.
- The Mira is available in a total of eight colors* including two new youthful and bright colors for a wide range of color variations.

* One of the colors is a manufacturer's option.

Interior
- The interior is stylish and casual with bright colors, providing passengers a snug, comfortable feeling.
- The dashboard features a high-contrast, two-tone, non-symmetrical design that radiates out from instrument panel. The adoption of a wider panel than on earlier models gives the interior a roomier look.
- The large instrument panel features a simple design and excellent visibility.
- The seat tricot fabric has a raised nap for a soft touch.

Highly efficient use of space that creates a surprisingly expansive interior

Package
- The adoption of a super-long, 2,490mm wheelbase and a compact engine compartment provides an extended interior length (2,000mm*1) and the widest interior of any minivehicle*2 (1,350mm). Although the height is 1,530mm*3, low enough for multistory parking garage, the highly efficient use of space creates a surprisingly large interior.

*1 The interior length of the Custom X and the Custom RS with two-wheel drive is 2,050mm, and that of the four-wheel drive models is 2,020mm. The interior length of the Custom L is 2,040mm.
*2 According to Daihatsu survey as of November 30, 2006.
*3 The height of the Custom RS is 1,540mm.

- The new Mira boasts ample rear seat legroom with 980mm* between the front and rear seats and a flat rear floor with no hump (on two-wheel drive models).

* The distance on the Custom X and the Custom RS is 995mm (as measured by Daihatsu).

2) Enhanced Small Car Value
A package that facilitates easy ingress and egress and ease of operation, combined with a high level of utility

Package
- The hip point for the driver's seat is set at 600mm, for optimal ingress and egress, the angle of front pillars is large to allow the doors to open wide, and the front door side step area is placed low for secure footing, achieving outstanding ease of ingress and egress.
- All four doors can be opened approximately 90 degrees for easy ingress and egress and loading.
- Despite the long wheelbase, the Mira boasts a minimum turning radius of just 4.2 meters. (L (4 WD), X (4 WD), X Limited, X Limited "SMART DRIVE Package," Custom L (4 WD))

Utility
- Side mirrors that enhance visibility to the rear left of the vehicle, which is an area that can be particularly difficult to see when reversing (such as when backing into a parking space), are standard features on the X, X Limited, and X Limited "Smart Drive Package"; and available on the Custom X and Customer RS with the optional Advanced Operation Pack. These mirrors change position automatically when the vehicle is put in reverse. Rear window wipers also operate when the vehicle is in reverse, a safety-enhancing feature when backing up in the rain, are standard on all Custom models.
- An Adjustable Pack (including driver's seat lift, tilt steering wheel, and adjustable shoulder belt anchors), which enables drivers to achieve optimal driving positions according to their physique and driving stance, is available as a manufacturer's option on all models.

Fuel efficiency of 27.0 km/l, the highest for a gasoline vehicle*2

- The Mira features two different engines from the Topaz Neo series. The KF-VE twin-cam DVVT*1 three-cylinder engine adopts a long-stroke and compact combustion chamber to provide ample torque even at low and medium speeds and outstanding fuel efficiency, while the KF-DET twin-cam, three-cylinder turbo engine provides strong, smooth acceleration from starting up to high speed.
- The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) adopts a compact input-speed reduction type three-shaft gear train system that is optimal for mini vehicles, contributing to excellent acceleration performance and high drive force transmission efficiency.
- The new Daihatsu Idle Stop System automatically stops and re-starts the engine when the vehicle is stopped at traffic lights and in traffic congestion to increase fuel efficiency and reduce noise when idling.
- The X Limited and Custom X, which feature the KF-VE engine and CVT, achieve fuel efficiency of 25.5 km/l. In addition, the X Limited "SMART DRIVE Package" with the new Daihatsu Idle Stop System boasts fuel efficiency of 27.0 km/l, the highest of any gasoline vehicle*2.

*1 DVVT: Dynamic Variable Valve Timing
*2 Survey by Daihatsu: As certified by Japan's Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport in the 10-15 Japanese test cycle, excluding hybrid vehicles (as of November 30, 2006).

3) Advanced quality
The new Mira Custom model focuses on high quality and functionality

Exterior
- The exterior basic design expresses the identity of the Mira, while a premium feel has been created through the combination of the clear silver front grille with plated molding, the four-lamp configuration of the headlights that merge into the grille, and the graphical rear combination lamps.

- Exclusive front and rear bumpers and side stone guards express a sense of stability.
- The Mira Custom is available in a total of eight colors* including three new colors for a wide range of color variations with a sophisticated feel.

* Two of the colors are manufacturer options.

Interior
- With a black-toned, sophisticated interior as the base, the glossy black center cluster (on all Custom models, X Limited, and X Limited "SMART DRIVE Package), the high-performance, attractive, self-illuminating meters (on the Custom RS and X Limited "SMART DRIVE Package), and the leather-wound steering wheel (on the Custom RS) create a space with a feeling of truly high quality.
- The elegant, black seat fabric conveys a different expression depending on the angle from which it is viewed.

Package and Utility
- The rear seat features one integrated seat with a long sliding range of 255mm* and can be tumbled forward for increased luggage space, allowing for versatile seat arrangements depending on use (Custom X and Custom RS)
* The sliding range on four-wheel drive models is 225 mm.
- A "key free" electric keycard system with an immobilizer function allows drivers to easily lock and unlock the doors and to turn the engine on and off with an "engine switch knob".
- A push-type ignition switch is available with the Advanced Operation Pack, a manufacturer's option on the Custom X and Custom RS.

4) Basic performance
A high-quality, comfortable, and quiet ride
- The adoption of a new platform with a long wheelbase and completely updated suspension system design provide outstanding maneuverability and stability.
- The frame is placed optimally and the corners of openings have been reinforced. The use of high tensile strength steel and steel plates of variable width in key frame components achieve a lightweight, high rigidity body that contributes to the quiet ride and maneuvering stability.
- The connection between the transmission and engine has been made more rigid and a high-rigidity aluminum oil pan (on models with CVT) adopted to reduce engine noise at the source. In addition, all two-wheel drive models use a two-point and torque rod engine mount method for even quieter driving.
- A Radar Cruise Control system can not only maintain speed but also control deceleration and maintain a uniform distance from preceding vehicles (manufacturer's option on Custom RS two-wheel drive models).

5) Environmental performance
All vehicles equipped with the KF-VE engine qualify for incentives under the Japanese government's green taxation system

- Through the adoption of the Super Intelligent Catalyst, Catalyst Early Activation System, and other means, all vehicles equipped with the KF-VE engine and the KF-DET engine have been certified as having emissions levels that are 75% and 50% lower, respectively, than the 2005 Exhaust Emissions Standards set by the Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport.
- All vehicles have been certified as having emissions levels 10 - 20% lower than the 2010 Fuel Efficiency Standards
- By meeting both the 2010 Fuel Efficiency Standard and the Approval System for Low-Emission Vehicles, all vehicles equipped with the KF-VE engine, qualify for incentives under the Japanese government's green taxation system intended to promote widespread use of fuel-efficient, low pollution vehicles.
- The total volume of CO2 and other air-polluting substances released through the entire lifecycle of the vehicle—not only at the driving stage, but at all stages from production to disposal—has been reduced using the results of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA).

6) Safety performance
Advanced safety technologies provide excellent safety performance

Collision safety
- The TAF* collision-safety body that features front side members with a high-efficiency impact-absorption structure, a collision impact distributing vehicle body structure, and high-rigidity steel plates achieves compatibility between outstanding collision impact absorbance and a rigid and light weight cabin.

* TAF: Total Advanced Function refers to a vehicle body with advanced collision impact absorbing functions.
- Collision safety standards for Japan as well as Europe were easily met. Outstanding safety has also been achieved for full head-on frontal and side collision tests at 55km/h, frontal offset collision tests at 64km/h, side-on collision tests at 55km/h, and rear-end collision tests at 55km/h, which are all the highest levels in the world. Further, the results of vehicle-to-vehicle collision tests (50km/h frontal collision, 50km/h side-on collision) based on Daihatsu's own targets, which take into consideration an analysis of actual accidents, demonstrated that the Mira preserves an ample survival space, and achieves superior occupant protection performance
- The interior is based on the concept of SOFI (Safety-Oriented Friendly Interior).
1) The Mira is equipped with a total of seven airbags, including front-seat SRS side airbags that distribute and reduce the impact to the head in the event of a frontal collision, SRS curtain shield airbags that cover the front and rear seats, and SRS knee airbag that restrict the lower body (particularly the knees) and provide enhanced protection in addition to the seat belts.
2) The front seats are equipped with a dynamic support headrest that moves the headrest forward in the event of a medium- to low-speed collision from the rear to reduce the impact to the head.
1) and 2) are included in the Safety Pack, a manufacturer's option on the Custom X and Custom RS.
3) Impact-absorbing materials in the pillar garnishes and roof interior is used to reduce impact and protect passengers' heads.
4) A structure that prevents rearward movement of the brake pedal reduces impact to the driver's legs, and an impact-absorbing steering wheel limits impact to the driver's head and body.

- The pedestrian injury-lessening body is designed to prevent injuries to the head, the most susceptible area, in the event of an accident with a pedestrian, including impact-reducing structures and force-absorbing spaces in the fenders, hood, hood hinges, and wiper pivots.

Preventive safety
The Mira offers VSC (Vehicle Stability Control), which combines three control systems (traction control, ABS and sideway skidding control) to ensure the vehicle's stability during abrupt steering wheel operations or driving on slippery road surfaces (manufacturer's option on Custom RS two-wheel drive models).

NISSAN DEVELOPS NATURAL GRAPE SEED POLYPHENOL FILTER FOR EFFECTIVE REMOVAL OF ALLERGENS CAUSING POLLEN ALLERGY

2006-12-18T12:35:00.000+09:00

TOKYO (Dec. 18, 2006)--Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. has developed a new type of high-performance filter using the anti-allergenic properties of natural grape seed polyphenol. The new filter is significantly more efficient in eliminating allergens that are the cause of pollen allergy. The filters will be introduced into Nissan's range of compact cars in Japan beginning December this month.

Conventional filters are designed to block mainly dust and pollen particles with a minimum size of 10 micron. This allows adequate removal of pollen in particle form, but it is not very efficient in blocking smaller diesel particulates (up to about 1 micron) or other allergens, particularly allergy-causing pollen, with a size of 0.3 to 0.5 micron.

Polyphenol has the ability to neutralize allergens of cedar pollen and dust mites, and Nissan’s researchers have taken advantage of this unique property to create a high performance filter using fiber impregnated with natural grape seed polyphenol *1. The three-dimensional molecule structure of natural grape seed polyphenol traps the allergen molecules and deactivates them by binding to the multiple -OH active groups that causes the allergy reaction. This action reduces the effect of cedar pollen allergens by 88 percent*2, or approximately five–fold improvement compared to monomeric polyphenol such as catechin*3. In addition, the antibacterial properties of natural grape seed polyphenol are about 1.5 -times better (reduction to 1/10,000 or less) than conventional filters*4.

Another important characteristic of the new filter is the fact that each fiber carries an electrostatic charge. As a result, the filter is capable of trapping other particles of similar size through its electrostatic property in addition to the removal and binding of allergens. When the air circulation in the cabin is set to re-circulation intake option (with fan speed set at the two setting), the particle count in the 0.5 micron range is reduced to 1/10 in under five minutes, or equivalent to 90 percent elimination. With continual use for 15 minutes, elimination efficiency can reach as high as 99.5 percent. Through the adoption of the new high performance cabin air filter, Nissan expects to further improve passenger comfort and their surrounding environment in the passenger cabin.

Image of allergen neutralization through catechin

Image of allergen neutralization through grape polyphenol

*1: Joint development with Kikkoman Corporation and Toyobo Co., Ltd.
*2: According to research at Fukui University
*3: According to in-house research at Nissan
*4: According to research at Japan Spinners Inspecting Foundation

All Mazda Vehicles From Car-Carrying Vessel Cougar Ace to be Scrapped

2006-12-18T12:25:00.000+09:00

IRVINE, Calif.—Mazda Motor Corporation today announced that all of the U.S.- and Canada-bound Mazda vehicles from the car-carrying vessel, Cougar Ace, which nearly capsized off the Aleutian Islands in late July, would be scrapped.

"After thorough testing by engineers from our American and Japanese R&D centers, we decided the most appropriate course of action – with our customers foremost in mind – was not to sell any of the 4,703 Mazdas aboard the ship," said Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO of Mazda North American Operations, based in Irvine, Calif.

The Cougar Ace sat listing at more than 60-degrees for nearly a month after an incident at sea, before it could be towed to the Port of Portland, Ore., for repairs and to have its cargo off-loaded.

O'Sullivan added that although some of the Mazdas aboard the Cougar Ace showed little or no visible damage from being tied-down at severe angles for an extended period, the company reconsidered its initial decision to sell any of the vehicles as used.

"We always put the customer first," O'Sullivan continued. "This drove our decision to scrap every one of the Mazdas involved in this incident. None will be sold as used cars."

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario, Canada, and in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City.

Mitsubishi Motors to unveil "Prototype-X" concept for next-generation high-performance 4WD sport sedan at 2007 Detroit Motor Show

2006-12-18T12:20:00.000+09:00

Tokyo, December 18, 2006 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc. (MMNA, based in Cypress California) will give the Mitsubishi Lancer compact sport sedan (U.S. market model) its global premiere and will also unveil the Prototype X concept for a next-generation high-performance 4WD sport sedan at the 2007 North American International Auto Show (the Detroit Motor Show). The 2007 NAIAS runs from January 7 to 21 at the Cobo Center in Detroit and opens to the general public on January 13.

Prototype X image sketch1

The Prototype-X concept car on show is an advance development model for the new Lancer Evolution due to be launched in the 2007 fiscal year. Embodying Mitsubishi Motors' trademark "fun to drive" qualities throughout, Prototype-X features styling based on the current Lancer but was developed to project a visibly higher performance image. The concept model is fitted with Mitsu-bishi's S-AWC*1 (Super All-Wheel Control) vehicle dynamics system that delivers the ultimate in four-wheel drive traction and handling control together with a new turbocharged MIVEC*2 engine with an aluminum cylinder block and a high performance 6-speed manual transmission.

Prototype X image sketch2

In addition to the Lancer and Prototype-X, Mitsubishi Motors will be featuring the Outlander sport utility vehicle, which was released in the U.S. market this October. Outlander is powered by a new high-performance 3-liter V6 MIVEC*2 engine together with a 6-speed automatic transmission to deliver strong acceleration and ample power at cruising speeds. The Raider pick-up, winner of the 2006 Baja 1000 (Stock Mini class), will also be showcased along with other local production models.

*1 S-AWC: Super All-Wheel Control. Vehicle dynamics system that integrates control of drive torque, braking, steering and suspension at all four wheels.
*2 MIVEC: Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control

HONDA　ASIMO Debuts in UK Advertising Campaign

2006-12-15T12:40:00.000+09:00

U.K., December 15, 2006 – Millions of TV viewers in the United Kingdom are set to experience the wonder of ASIMO this Christmas as they watch the world’s most advanced humanoid robot appear in Honda’s (UK) latest ‘warm technology’ advertising campaign.

Still of ASIMO in the latest Honda (UK) Advertising Campaign

The 90 second TV advertisement, which premieres on 15th December, follows ASIMO on a journey of discovery through the corridors and exhibits of a science museum.

Head of Marketing at Honda (UK), Jeff Dodds, said: “We’re always looking to develop technology that is approachable and warm, and by that I mean innovations people can appreciate, engage with and relate to. ASIMO is a serious research project for Honda, but also has the ability to put smiles on people’s faces and so embodies perfectly our ‘warm technology’ approach.”

This is the first time ASIMO has featured in a Honda (UK) advert and brings the story of Honda’s ground breaking humanoid robotics program to a whole new audience.

The campaign will run throughout the Christmas period and is supported by a dedicated section on Honda’s website, www.honda.co.uk. The website allows visitors to explore the history of Honda’s humanoid robotics research program as well as view exclusive ‘behind-the scenes’ footage. These clips explain the story of ASIMO and Honda’s dream of creating a useful humanoid robot, which can one day be so advanced that it can truly help people and society.

Honda (UK) has won worldwide acclaim and a host of industry awards for its previous advertising campaigns, which have included ‘The Cog’, ‘The Impossible Dream’ and ‘Grrrr’ (hate something, change something). This current advert was developed by Wieden+Kennedy, the same award winning advertising agency and took a week to shoot.

ASIMO is no stranger to the UK, especially amongst the nation’s school children, performing regularly at educational events designed to inspire young people about the joys of studying science and engineering. ASIMO was also first introduced to the UK in 2004 at London’s Science Museum, performing a series of public demonstrations.

Nissan Publishes Winning Works From Its Children’s Storybook and Picture Book Grand Prix

2006-12-15T12:35:00.000+09:00

-Nissan to donate books to public libraries, nursery schools and kindergartens-

TOKYO (Dec. 15, 2006)—Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., has published two winning works from the 22nd Nissan Children’s Storybook and Picture Book Grand Prix held last year. The books will be published by BL Publishing Co., Ltd., and will retail at bookstores nationwide starting today.

The published books are titled “Mizuiro no Ashihire” (Light Blue Flipper) by Madoka Sato and “Haru to Kaminari” (Haru and Kaminari) by Minako Chiba – winners of the Children’s Storybook Grand Prize and Picture Book Grand Prize respectively. The former will be illustrated by Hiromi Ohnishi, winner of the Children’s Picture Book Grand Prize from the 2nd Grand Prix in 1985.

Prizes for the 22nd Nissan Children’s Storybook and Picture Book Grand Prix were announced in March this year. The popularity of the Grand Prix continues to grow annually where a total of 2,375 storybook entries were collected in addition to 555 entries in the picture book category for last year.

To promote these exceptional works to a wider audience, Nissan will be donating copies of these books to about 3,550 libraries nationwide as well as 670 local nursery schools and kindergartens. Since the 1st Grand Prix started in 1984, Nissan has donated up to 143,000 books nationwide, bringing the educational benefit and joys of reading to children of all ages.The Nissan Children’s Storybook and Picture Book Grand Prix was inaugurated in May 1984 as a competition for original storybooks and picture books from amateur writers. The International Institute for Children’s Literature, Osaka, is the main organizer of the contest through Nissan's co-sponsorship. The Grand-Prix is designed to attract fresh talents and facilitate the discovery of outstanding new writers and works, and to provide children with more inspiring and imaginative storybooks and picture books. Each year, the contest invites a wide spectrum of writers to submit their storybooks and picture books, and receives a large number of entries. A special feature of this Grand Prix is the publication of the winning works, which provides an opportunity for new writers to enter into the competitive arena of children’s book publishing and eventually become professional writers.

Submissions for this year’s 23rd Nissan Children’s Storybook and Picture Book Grand Prix ended on October 16. The award ceremony is scheduled for next March at the International Institute for Children’s Literature, Osaka.

Information about the Grand Prix is available at the following site:
www.nissan-global.com/JP/CITIZENSHIP/FAIRYTALE/index.html (Japanese only)

Mitsubishi Production launch of "Outlander" SUV at Okazaki plant

2006-12-15T12:15:00.000+09:00

Tokyo, December 15, 2006 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today announced that it starts production of "Outlander" SUV at Okazaki plant, located in Okazaki City, Aichi Prefecture. Okazaki plant will produce 29,000 units of "Outlander" in the second half of fiscal year 2006 mainly for North America, Russia and Japanese markets.
Mizushima plant has been producing its model so far, but due to robust growth in sales of domestic mini-cars and export models, the plant's production capacity has reached maximum level. Transferring a part of "Outlander" production will ease current production condition of overloaded Mizushima plant.

Mitsubishi Motors celebrated production launch of "Outlander" at Okazaki plant today. President Masuko made remarks during the ceremony, "This is an impressive moment to celebrate a new start of Okazaki plant, however we also need to reaffirm that we are still on a passing point on the execution of the revitalization plan. I would like to ask all the employees here today to challenge forward to create Okazaki plant's new history."

Okazaki plant had been operated with one-shift from April 2004; its operation shift is changed to two-shift for the first time in the past 32 months.

YAMAHA ASEAN CUP 2006

2006-12-15T12:10:00.000+09:00

Qualifying riders from Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand compete for the title of "No. 1 ASEAN Rider"*Photos show 2005 ASEAN CUP in Thailand

Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (YMC) will hold the "Yamaha ASEAN Cup 2006" championship competition over the three days from Dec. 15 to 17 at the Pekan Raya Jakarta Circuit (Indonesia / overall length: 1,200 m). Now in its fourth holding, the Yamaha ASEAN Cup is an international one-make (*) championship competition using Yamaha's 4-stroke sporty moped model ridden by riders who have qualified by winning tough national competitions to compete in this event for the right to be called the fastest in the ASEAN region. In the first holding of this competition in Indonesia in 2003, the competing riders were from the three countries of Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. In the second holding in 2004, two more countries joined the competition, the Philippines and Singapore. With this, riders from five countries competed for the championship titles. In this fourth holding this year, there will once again be riders from these five countries competing in two classes, an Expert Class and a Novice Class.

Amidst recent market conditions here in the ASEAN region where the interest in motor sports is growing and the number of young people pursuing active lifestyles is increasing, YMC has been promoting a wide range of activities aimed at (1) strengthening the image of Yamaha as a sporty brand and (2) promoting the development and spread of motorcycle sports in the ASEAN region. YMC considers the Yamaha ASEAN Cup to be a very important event that has special symbolic meaning among these.
As the hosts of this year's event, P.T. Yamaha Indonesia Motor Manufacturing (YIMM) and P.T. Yamaha Motor Kencana Indonesia (YMKI) will take charge of the race operations. The models to be used in this competition are Yamaha's top-of-the-line 4-stroke moped T135 (Indonesian market name: Jupiter MX135) for the Expert Class and the region's popular 4-stroke sporty moped T110 (Indonesian market name: Jupiter Z) for the Novice Class.

* A one-make race is a type of race competition in which all the competitors use the same make.

Daihatsu Announces New SUV for Indonesia

2006-12-14T12:40:00.000+09:00

Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. announced today that it will launch a new compact SUV Terios in Indonesia in January 2007. The aim, in response to increasing demand in Indonesia for compact SUVs, is to expand the market while meeting various customer needs.

The new SUV will be produced at P.T. Astra Daihatsu Motor (ADM), which is Daihatsu's production base in Indonesia, and will be sold through P.T. Astra International (AI). Plans also call for the new SUV to be supplied to Toyota on an OEM basis in Indonesia under the name Rush.

The new Terios is targeted at active, young families who will use the SUV in their daily lives and for leisure activities. The monthly sales target is 1,000 units. On the road price for the vehicle is between 123 and 161 million rupiahs (approximately 1.59 to 2.08 million yen).

TERIOS

Vehicle Outline
1.The new Terios boasts styling that befits an advanced, full-scale SUV.
2.Three rows of seats to accommodate seven passengers and versatile seat arrangements contribute to a high-efficiency package.
3.The vehicle is equipped with a new 1.5-liter DOHC engine with VVT-i (Variable Valve Timing-intelligent).

Mazda to Display 'CX-7 Bright Stylish Concept' at Tokyo Auto Salon 2007

2006-12-14T12:25:00.000+09:00

- Customized and tuner vehicle lineup to also include MPV, Axela and Roadster-based exhibits -

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation will showcase a tantalizing lineup of seventeen customized and tuner vehicles at the Tokyo Auto Salon 2007 with NAPAC. Mazda will showcase the 'CX-7 Bright Stylish Concept' and 'CX-7 Mazdaspeed Concept' vehicles, which are exciting concept models based on the brand new CX-7 crossover production model that is scheduled for launch in Japan on December 19, 2006. The Auto Salon will be held at the Makuhari Messe Convention Center in Chiba Prefecture from January 12 to 14, 2007. Mazda CX-7 Bright Stylish Concept (customized from the North American-spec base model)

At the Tokyo Auto Salon 2007, Mazda will present the CX-7 Bright Stylish Concept along with Mazdaspeed Axela and Mazdaspeed Roadster concepts, in addition to models co-designed with the popular KENSTYLE and DAMD afterparts brands. During the event, the well-known car critic, Etsuro Fushiki, will host a talk show focusing on the new CX-7. Additionally, Manabu Kawaguchi, an automotive journalist, former Mazda development driver Yoshimi Katayama and a representative from the RE (rotary engine)-Amemiya Corporation, Isami Amemiya, will be participants in a talk show on Mazda's performance cars.

Mazda's Exhibits at Tokyo Auto Salon 2007
1. Mazda CX-7 Mazdaspeed Concept (concept model)
The 'City Highspeed Tourer' design concept focuses on intensifying the appeal of the crossover sport CX-7, a skillful blend of SUV and sports car. Through the pursuit of the ultimate ride, function and beauty have been added to the base model's design concept of "sturdy, sporty and sleek." In this way, this CX-7 concept's specifications gain an added dimension of driving performance and presence.

2. Mazda CX-7 Bright Stylish Concept (concept model)
High quality chrome garnish has been added to the flowing and powerful CX-7 exterior, highlighting its unique character. Precisely molded aeroparts on the front, sides and rear emphasize the vehicle's strong lines and highlight driving performance, raising the CX-7's presence as an 'Urban Grand Tourer'.

3. Mazda CX-7 KENSTYLE (with planned production accessories)
Popular brand KENSTYLE has enhanced the CX-7's sense of 'styling performance' with this exhibit model. Symbolized by the addition of simple and casual aero equipment, the tasteful styling takes the high quality sports design up another notch and will attract admiring glances on the streets.

4. Mazda CX-7 DAMD (with planned production accessories)
This version of the CX-7 has the well-known brand DAMD's particular flavor incorporated into the flowing bodyline. The impressive styling is expressed in chrome parts, including the front grille, side aeroparts, diffuser-style rear underskirt and a front fascia that communicates a sense of speed.

5. Mazda CX-7 Audio Mania (concept model)
The Mazda CX-7 Audio Mania comes outfitted with all the latest audio and video technology. Carrozzeria, a leading brand in in-car entertainment, has offered up a fresh addition to the CX-7 world. The most up-to-date audiovisual equipment adds a deeply engaging final touch to the spacious interior.

6. Mazda MPV Bright Stylish Concept (concept model)
Already a world apart from conventional minivans, Mazda's MPV has been customized with a view to heightened stylishness. The front grille, bonnet and side and rear garnish pieces are made with chrome plating, providing a high quality finish. Additionally, front, side and rear aeroparts add a new element to the driving experience, while uniquely molded aeroparts enhance the vehicle's dynamic lines and express its potential for lively performance.

7. Mazda MPV Prestigious (concept model)
Customized under the key phrase, "Driving Business Class," the MPV Prestigious is a vehicle with the features of a private mobile office that ideally complements any business environment. Only two seats are installed in the rear to create a roomy and luxurious space where business can be conducted and computer work can be carried out in comfort while on the move.

8. Mazdaspeed Axela MS Concept (concept model)
Based on the high performance Mazdaspeed Axela sport compact car, this custom car boasts an aggressive exterior brimming with beauty and functionality that would be welcome in any driveway. With interior modifications including four full bucket seats, the overall impression of speed assaults the senses.

9. Mazda Axela Sport DAMD (with production accessories)
Build on the lively Axela Sport, DAMD has added their own brand of Italian flair to this custom version. By attaching an exclusive front grille, front under spoiler and rear underskirt, DAMD has cleverly highlighted the Axela's speed and explosive power. The cabin features an Ancel MONO+Sport Series design. The ivory monotone color realizes a coordinated elegance in the sporty interior.

10. Mazda Roadster Mazdaspeed M'z Tune Concept (concept model)
Mazda's Roadster has always provided "Jinba Ittai" (rider and horse as one) performance with a fun-to-drive character. This concept model has undergone a comprehensive tuning to further evolve both its Jinba Ittai attributes and quality. Mazda E&T has long been acquainted with the base model and this experience helped them to attain an even more aggressive performance while preserving its everyday practicality. This is one vehicle that raises the bar on conventional perceptions of delight.

11. Mazda RX-8 Mazdaspeed M'z Tune (production model)
This fully customized version of the high-performance RX-8 boasts increased sports car appeal through modifications to raise comfort levels and driving feel. Mazda E&T has taken advantage of its long relationship with the base model to offer a tuner that makes driving safe and fun, both on and off the track. The Mazda RX-8 Mazdaspeed M'z Tune will make any owner proud.

12. Mazdaspeed Atenza M'z Tune (production model)
The Mazdaspeed Atenza M'z Tune model is based on Mazda's "sports sedan for adults" concept, with a high performance DISI turbo engine that was designed for the current desire for eco-friendliness. This Atenza underwent full customization to further evolve its fun-to-drive qualities, outstanding power and superb comfort levels. Making the most of its experience with this model, Mazda E&T offers both safety and a thrilling ride while driving about town all the way up to more sporty driving.

13. Mazda Roadster NR-A (production model)
This model is a new addition to Mazda's world of fun in motion, providing an upgraded "Jinba Ittai" (rider and horse as one) experience. The NR-A is the base model for the Party Race version, fully equipped with accessories such as high-performance Bilstein dampers and a torque sensing super limited slip differential (LSD). A rollcage and towbar come as options, while racing seatbelts are included to qualify it for participation in production vehicle races.

14. Mazda Roadster Blaze Edition DAMD (with production accessories)
DAMD has also produced its take on the Roadster Blaze Edition, featuring an exterior modified with its renowned aeroparts. The Roadster Blaze is Mazda's ultimate version, optimizing desirability by harmonizing superb quality with Mazda's "Jinba Ittai" and "lots of fun" characteristics. More details about this model will be released at the end of December 2006.

15. Mazda Roadster KURENAI (concept model)
The "exhilaration of the open-top" and the "practicality of a coupe" were the two fun aspects that were designed into the Roadster Power Retractable Hard Top. Chrome parts highlight the premium styling, while glass flakes blended into the purple body color accent the charming atmosphere. Inside, red Italian leather and Alcantara* make up the mature color scheme. The KURENAI is a chic open-style customized model perfect for passionate people.
* A suede-like artificial leather made by Torex. The Japanese name is Ecsaine

16. Mazda Premacy Bright Stylish M'z Style (planned production model)
Under the 'Cool Style Minivan' concept, the base model Premacy was customized with a view to raising its stylish presence. The front bumper and grille are outfitted with a chrome kit, while the rear styling is focused on a unified flow emphasized by the rear underskirt. A more resonant exhaust note--attained by fitting an exclusive sports muffler--emphasizes the unique presence of the Premacy Bright Stylish Concept.

17. Mazda Verisa Sherwood Knight (concept model)
Among the Mazda Verisa's high-quality and stylish features, maturity and elegance are particularly emphasized in this model. Special body color, Highland Green Mica and an original front-grille bumper enhance the styling that renders a nostalgic feel. The leather seats, a combination of sand beige and black, provide a fresh contrast to heighten the refined and exclusive interior atmosphere.

Toyota to Hold 70th Anniversary Commemorative Concerts with Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra

2006-12-12T12:50:00.000+09:00

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today that it will hold a series of concerts in April 2007 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of its founding, featuring the Toyota Master Players, Wien, a specially selected orchestra of 30 musicians from the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.

A total of seven concerts will be held throughout Japan—five "Wien Premium Concerts" (Sapporo, Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka and Fukuoka)—featuring performances by the Toyota Master Players, Wien playing selections from the Viennese classics, represented by masterpieces from the composers Haydn and Mozart, as well as Beethoven's 6th symphony, also known as the Pastoral Symphony, and two Wien Grand Concerts (Tokyo and Nagoya) featuring, in addition to Mozart's lively opera arias, joint performances by Conductor Yutaka Sado of the Nagoya Philharmonic Orchestra and the Fujiwara Opera Chorus Group, playing Beethoven's 9th symphony.

Soloists (instrumental soloists and vocalists) will include musicians from the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and singers from the major opera houses of Europe, such as the Vienna State Opera, as well as Japanese harpist Naoko Yoshino, soprano Akiko Nakajima and tenor Shigehiro Sano.

This is the sixth series of the Toyota Master Players, Wien concerts since the series' start in 2000 as part of TMC's social contribution activities in support of the arts and culture. These concerts are provided at a reduced ticket price to offer a large number of people an opportunity to appreciate world class musical art.

This series will also feature several free special programs targeting younger audiences, namely invitations to all performances and public rehearsals (Tokyo and Nagoya), a "Masters Class" (taught by an instructor from the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra) (Tokyo), and concerts at elementary schools and child welfare facilities (Tokyo and Nagoya).

Applications for each of these special programs can be found on the TMC (Japanese-language) website (http://www.toyota.co.jp/tomas07/).

Nissan inaugurates new global design studio

2006-12-12T12:35:00.000+09:00

Tokyo -- Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. today inaugurated a new design studio complex that will serve as the central hub for the company’s global design activities. The new design studio covers an area of 42000m2 and is located at the Nissan Technical Center in Atsugi, Kanagawa Prefecture.

The completion of this new design studio is part of a comprehensive program that Nissan has undertaken since 2001 to enhance and expand it’s global design facilities, the last of the global studios to be upgraded.

“This latest investment in the future of our design capabilities is proof that Nissan intends to stay a leader in the area of automotive design,” said Shiro Nakamura, Chief Creative Officer, Nissan Motor Company. “Our new global design center represents a shift in how we are working cross-globally with the other studios and cross-functionally with engineering to deliver more innovative products faster to market,” continued Nakamura.

Under the theme of "collaboration and communication," the new studio has been designed to strengthen the working relationships not only with each design organization, but also with product planning, engineering and supplier companies. The new studio will also be instrumental in advancing the digital design and engineering processes that Nissan is implementing throughout the company.

The facility is zoned for each project and every member of a project--not only designers but also modellers, product planners, engineers, and any other staff -- can work closely in one area. In addition, there are specific areas such as the “information gallery” where designers can immerse themselves in creative ideas from the latest global design trends. The new design studio will employ about 600 designers and associated support staff.

Nissan currently has design studies at six locations worldwide, two in Japan (Atsugi and Harajuku), two in the United States (San Diego and Detroit), one in the United Kingdom (London) and one in Taiwan (Miao Li Hsien).

Mazda to Debut Mazda Ryuga Design Concept and New Tribute HEV at 2007 North American International Auto Show

2006-12-12T12:25:00.000+09:00

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda North American Operations will unveil an all-new concept car, Mazda Ryuga, and its all-new Mazda Tribute Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) at the 2007 North American International Auto Show. All attending media are invited to the company's formal unveiling on the Mazda show stand at 10:15 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 8, 2007.Mazda RYUGA

Mazda Ryuga builds on Mazda's concept of flow. Nagare —Japanese for "flow"— debuted at the recent Los Angeles Auto Show and introduced the company's new design future. Ryuga — Japanese for "gracious flow," and the next generation of this exciting concept — will reflect a higher level of sophistication achieved through the use of rich fabrics, engineered fits and hidden details. Mazda Ryuga is elegant and refined, but with spirit and edge, portraying unique Japanese beauty.

"Ryuga is Zoom-Zoom defined," said Laurens van den Acker, Mazda's global design director. "It combines vibrance, confidence, fun and youth all in one ingenious package."

Offering another, although far more immediate and real, look into its future, Mazda also will debut the 2008 Mazda Tribute HEV. The heavily revised Tribute HEV will be the first advanced-technology vehicle dedicated to clean air that Mazda will sell to the public when it becomes available later in the year.

The Tribute HEV is one of the least-polluting vehicles on the road, yet still delivers the performance required by SUV owners. With a combined power output of its gasoline engine and electric motor of 155 hp, the Tribute HEV provides plenty of power yet meets strict Super Ultra Low Emissions Vehicle (SULEVII) and Advanced Technology Partial Zero Emissions Vehicle (AT-PZEV) standards in California — the strictest emission regulations a gasoline-fueled vehicle can meet.

Also on display at the show will be the all-new seven-passenger SUV Mazda CX-9, the five-passenger SUV Mazda CX-7 and the balance of Mazda's 2007 product lineup.

Toyota Expands Exports From Indonesia

2006-12-11T12:50:00.000+09:00

— Avanza Destinations Increase; IMV Fortuner Added to List —

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today that PT. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia (TMMIN)—TMC's vehicle production company in Indonesia—has significantly enhanced its export efforts by shipping the PT. Astra Daihatsu Motor (ADM)-produced Toyota Avanza*1 small car to more countries and by adding the TMMIN-produced IMV*2 Fortuner SUV to its export list.

As part of a Toyota Avanza destination-expansion effort started in August with shipments to South Africa, the small multipurpose vehicle will now be exported by TMMIN to the Philippines and other countries in Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and Oceania. This is expected to result in approximately 22,000 units being shipped in 2007, compared to an approximately 2,000 units in 2005, when the model was originally exported only to Thailand and Brunei Darussalam.

Exports of the Fortuner SUV to the Middle East, which were announced in May and began in November, are expected to reach approximately 10,000 units a year, starting in 2007. This would result in TMMIN exports (including those of the ADM-produced Toyota Avanza and other TMMIN-produced models) of approximately 40,000 units in 2007, compared to an approximately 7,000 units in 2005. When including engines and other production components, such exports would be worth 950 million U.S. dollars.

The enhanced export efforts were marked today with a ceremony at the stockyard of PT. Toyota Astra Motor (TAM) attended by numerous dignitaries, including Indonesia's Minister of Industry Fahmi Idris and Japanese Ambassador to Indonesia Shin Ebihara. TAM is the marketing, distribution and after-sales service company for Toyota vehicles in Indonesia.

TMC has positioned Indonesia as an important and promising market within its global strategy and as a production and supply base for minivans, SUVs and gasoline engines. In doing so, TMC intends to further contribute to the development of both Indonesia's automotive industry and the nation's economy as a whole.

Outline of TMMIN
Company name PT. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia
Location North Jakarta, Indonesia
President Hidematsu Ibaragi
Shareholder composition TMC (95%), PT. Astra International (5%)
Start of Production 1970
Product lineup Kijang Innova, Kijang pickup truck, Fortuner and gasoline engines
Production capacity 110,000 units/year (Sunter Plant 1 and Karawang Plant)
Number of employees Approx. 5,500 (as of April 2006)

*1 Production of the Avanza and its Daihatsu sister model Xenia began in December 2003 as the first jointly developed models to be built by PT. Astra Daihatsu Motor. Sales of the Avanza through PT. Toyota-Astra Motor and sales of the Xenia through PT. Astra International began in January 2004. Exports of the Avanza to Thailand through PT. Toyota Motor Manufacturing Indonesia began in May 2004.

*2 Innovative International Multipurpose Vehicle (IMV) of the Toyota IMV Project aimed at creating an optimal production and supply network on a global scale; the project consists of three pickup trucks, a minivan and an SUV.

NISSAN ANNOUNCES “NISSAN GREEN PROGRAM 2010”

2006-12-11T12:36:00.000+09:00

- MIDTERM ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION PLAN FOCUSING ON CO2 REDUCTION -

TOKYO (Dec. 11, 2006)--Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., announced its new mid-term environmental action plan, Nissan Green Program 2010 (NGP 2010). This plan is designed to fulfill Nissan’s environmental philosophy of “symbiosis of people, vehicles and nature” and contribute to a sustainable mobile society.

Highlights of Nissan Green Program 2010 include:

Incorporating CO2 reduction as one of the key management performance indicators.
Launch a “three-liter car” with a target of 2010; a gasoline-fueled car that runs 100km on three liters of fuel.
Expand availability of Flexible Fuel Vehicles (FFV) within the next three years.
Launch Nissan electric vehicle early in the next decade.
Develop Nissan’s original hybrid vehicle targeted for launch in FY2010.
Accelerate development of plug-in hybrid technology.
Reduce CO2 emissions from global manufacturing plants by 7% compared to 2005 by 2010.
“The Nissan Green Program 2010 provides a transparent view of Nissan’s future commitments to all aspects of environmental management,” said Toshiyuki Shiga, Chief Operating Officer, Nissan Motor Company. “Nissan Green Program 2010 has been designed to address immediate challenges as well as creating the foundation towards a long-term sustainable business model.”

Nissan is focused on three core areas related to the environment: 1. Reducing CO2 emissions 2. Reducing exhaust emissions 3. Accelerating recycling efforts. The Nissan Green Program 2010 is specifically focused on reducing CO2 emissions both from our products as well as from day-to-day corporate activities.

In order to make reducing CO2 part of the major decision making processes of the company, CO2 has been added to internal management performance indicators. Previously, the indicators were quality, cost and time (QCT). Starting this fiscal year CO2 has been added to create QCT-C.

“Our product development philosophy is to deliver in a sustainable way, the right technology, at the right time, in the right market, and at the right value to the customer”, said Carlos Tavares, Executive Vice President, Product Planning and Corporate Strategy, Nissan Motor Company. “QCT-C is a key management tool that places CO2 performance at the core of our business model.”

For the foreseeable future, Nissan believes that the internal combustion engine will continue to serve as the primary power source for vehicles. Under NGP 2010, Nissan will accelerate development of technologies that deliver improvements to the efficiency of conventional gasoline powertrains. For example, Nissan will develop powertrains that support the development of a “three-liter car”; a car that will travel 100 kilometers using just three liters of gasoline. This product’s launch is targeted at 2010, starting from Japan.

Looking ahead, vehicles using electric motors with the power derived from batteries or hydrogen fuel cells will become increasingly important and ultimately may replace the internal combustion engine. Nissan continues to invest substantially into all aspects of electric vehicle technology. Leading that program will be the development of a hybrid vehicle that uses Nissan original technologies for a FY2010 launch target. In 2007, Nissan will introduce its first hybrid car – the US market Altima sedan – which utilizes a hybrid system developed outside the company.

In the early part of the next decade, Nissan will launch the next generation fuel cell vehicle with its own in-house developed stack and a battery-powered electric vehicle. At the same time, Nissan is preparing for a new company to develop, produce and market advanced lithium-ion batteries, a key technological component for all electric powertrains. In addition, it will accelerate development of plug-in hybrid vehicles.

“At Nissan we believe that in order to develop vehicles that are truly environmentally friendly, we need to make significant advances in internal combustion technology while working on electrical power sources in parallel,” said Mitsuhiko Yamashita, Executive Vice President, Research and Development, Nissan Motor Company.

Nissan Green Program 2010

Nissan Rogue Crossover SUV and Nissan Bevel Concept Set

2006-12-11T12:35:00.000+09:00

– 2008 Nissan Rogue and Bevel Concept Design Study Share Spotlight in Detroit –

NASHVILLE (Dec. 8, 2006) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today announced that it will preview two new vehicles at the 2007 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in early January – the Nissan Rogue crossover sport utility vehicle and an advanced design study called the Nissan Bevel.

The all-new Rogue is Nissan’s first entry into the small crossover segment. It is scheduled to go on sale in fall 2007 as a 2008 model and joins Nissan’s lineup of advanced crossover and sport utility vehicles that includes Armada, Pathfinder, Xterra and Murano. The dramatically styled Rogue offers exceptional handling, all-wheel drive capability and an interior space that combines innovation and versatility.

Also making its world debut in Detroit is the Nissan Bevel Concept, a dynamic, multi-purpose vehicle with a small size, big utility and fresh thinking – including a function-inspired design, a “command central” cockpit and high-utility interior. The Bevel Concept was created at Nissan Design America, La Jolla, Calif.

Mitsubishi Motors to give new Lancer compact sport sedan global premiere at 2007 Detroit Motor Show

2006-12-11T12:20:00.000+09:00

Tokyo, December 11, 2006 — Mitsubishi Motors Corporation (MMC) and Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc. (MMNA, based in Cypress California) will give the new North American market specification Mitsubishi Lancer compact sport sedan its global premiere at the 2007 North American International Auto Show (the Detroit Motor Show). The 2007 NAIAS runs from January 7 to 21 at the Cobo Center in Detroit and opens to the general public on January 13.The new North American market Lancer uses a larger body than the current model, with an overall length of 4570 mm (35 mm longer), overall width of 1760 mm (65 mm wider), overall height of 1490 mm (60 mm taller) and wheelbase of 2635 mm (35 mm longer). The design uses elements from the Mitsubishi Concept-X shown at the 2005 Tokyo Motor Show to create a handsome, purposeful-looking shape and a confident, stable stance.

The new Lancer rides on the same next-generation platform employed by the company's Outlander on-road SUV for outstanding crash safety and rigidity. The powertrain mates a new high output (152 hp) low emission 2.0-liter DOHC MIVEC*1 engine to a 6-speed SportronicR CVT*2 transmission. This is the first Mitsubishi vehicle destined for the North American market to offer a CVT. Some trim levels are offered with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters that allow the driver to shift gears manually without taking his hand off the wheel. Delivering outstanding economy and environmental performance, the driveline is complemented by an equipment and appointments specification that elevates driving enjoyment to a new level in a total package that satisfies all the requirements for a next-generation sport sedan.

*1 MIVEC (Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing and lift Electronic Control
*2 CVT (Continuous Variable Transmission)

YAMAHA　New Sales System for Motorcycles and Other Land Vehicles in Japan

2006-12-08T12:10:00.000+09:00

Newly Formed Land Vehicle Subsidiary Commences Operations

On September 22, 2006, Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (the “Company”) announced its plan to establish a new company dedicated to the sales of land vehicles -- mainly motorcycles and electro-hybrid bicycles -- in Japan, in line with the ongoing divestitures and mergers of its group companies. In advance of the start of operations, the Company would like to present more details about the new company.

YMSJ Co., Ltd., originally established on September 1, 2006 to facilitate the transfer of business, will start its operations as a new company on January 1, 2007, under the name Yamaha Motor Marketing Japan Co., Ltd.

The paid-in capital of Yamaha Motor Marketing Japan will be increased from the initial 10 million yen at the time of establishment to 490 million yen. Mr. Mitsuaki Matsuo will take office as president of the new company, scheduled to have some 350 employees.

Yamaha Motor Marketing Japan will have its headquarters in Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture. Based on results of a review of the existing sales system, it will operate seven sales offices -- Hokkaido, Tohoku, Northern Kanto, Kanto, Chubu, Western Japan and Kyushu -- and two services centers, in Kanto and Western Japan. Each sales office will have a product sales, parts sales, and service operations section, in order to operate effectively in these three key business areas. The organization boasts a flatter structure with fewer hierarchical levels, enabling a quicker response to customer feedback and changing market trends, thus improving the quality of sales and services.

The demand for motorcycles in Japan has remained flat, due mainly to an increased diversity of hobbies among young people and a decrease in the number of children in the population. On the other hand, deregulation -- such as last year’s lifting of the ban on tandem riding on expressways and the introduction of a motorcycle license for automatic models -- has produced favorable signs for motorcycles sales. One is an increase in the number of females obtaining motorcycle licenses. Another is the growing population of so-called “return riders” -- middle-aged former motorcyclists re-emerging as active riders. Thus, motorcycles have begun to attract attention once again as a hobby. Yamaha Motor Marketing Japan plans to expand the lineup of large sports models while promoting environmentally friendly electric vehicles that contribute less to global warming. The new company aims to achieve net sales of 60 billion yen in its first year (2007), and 65 billion yen after three years (in 2010).

Sales operations for marine products, such as boats and outboard motors, and golf cars -- both previously conducted by a domestic sales subsidiary -- will be transferred to the Company. Meanwhile, sales of multi-purpose engines, centering on generators, will be transferred to Yamaha Motor Powered Products Co., Ltd., and the sales business for mobile phones will switch to YS Co., Ltd., in order to hone the competitive edge in each business segment.

Profile of Yamaha Motor Marketing Japan Co., Ltd.

Name: Yamaha Motor Marketing Japan Co., Ltd.
(To be changed from YMSJ Co., Ltd. on January 1, 2007)

Location: 2000-1, Iwai, Iwata City, Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan
Date of establishment: September 1, 2006

Representative: Mitsuaki Matsuo, President and Representative Director

Capitalization: 490 million yen (pursuant to a scheduled capital increase on January 1, 2007, up from an initial 10 million yen at the time of establishment)

Ownership: Wholly owned by Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.

Employees: Approximately 350

Business lines: Sales and servicing of Yamaha motorcycles and other land vehicles in Japan

Projected sales: 60 billion yen (for the fiscal year ending December 31, 2007)

Toyota Holds Ceremony Commemorating First Presentation

2006-12-06T12:50:00.000+09:00

Tokyo — TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced that it held a stipend presentation ceremony of the Toyota Study Assistance Fund*1 today at Ningxia University in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. The Toyota Study Assistance Fund was established jointly with the Soong Ching Ling Foundation*2 in March of this year to provide assistance to students in mid-western China who for financial reasons would otherwise have difficulty entering university or advancing their tertiary education. The presentation ceremony was the fund's first.

In attendance at the ceremony were 10 first-year Ningxia University students selected to receive stipends, representatives of the 20 universities subject to the fund, representatives of the Soong Ching Ling Foundation and TMC Executive Vice President Yoshimi Inaba, among others.

In his address at the ceremony, Inaba stated: "The Toyota Study Assistance Fund was created to allow those who face financial hardship to devote their full energies to their studies with peace of mind. It is our passionate hope that the fund will expand its presence throughout Chinese society, provide hope to the youth who will be tomorrow's leaders, and continue to develop."

Toyota has long engaged in diverse social contribution activities in regions around the world with a focus on human resource development, environmental protection and traffic safety. In addition to the Toyota Study Assistance Fund, activities in the area of human resource development in China include the creation of the Technical Training Center of Toyota Jin Bei of China Automotive Industry in Shenyang City, Liaoning Province, and the establishment of a research center in Beijing in collaboration with the Tsinghua University's School of Public Policy. With respect to environmental protection, Toyota engages in afforestation programs to combat desertification and has established the Toyota Environmental Protection Aid Program for China's Youth; in the traffic safety area, Toyota conducts Toyota Driver Communication hands-on safe-driving courses in cooperation with the Chinese Ministry of Public Security.

Through these initiatives, Toyota seeks to be a good corporate citizen in China and plans to continue contributing to Chinese society.

*1 The Toyota Study Assistance Fund targets one university in each of 20 different provincial, municipal and autonomous regions in mid-western China. Stipends are made available for 10 first-year students a year per university and consist of a yearly amount of 5,000 Chinese yuan (approx. 75,000 yen) for four years. To select recipients, a selection committee of educators and experts on poverty issues reviews the economic situations of those sitting for university entrance exams who applied for a stipend. TMC plans to offer financial assistance to a total of 1,000 university students through the fund over a five-year period from 2006 to 2010 (200 students per year). The entire fund is valued at 20 million yuan (approx. 300 million yen).

*2 The Soong Ching Ling Foundation, one of China's oldest community service organizations, was established in May 1982 in memory of Soong Ching Ling, the late honorary president of the People's Republic of China. The Foundation, which engages in the promotion of a wide range of independent activities, including international exchange, exchange between Taiwan and China, education of the needy, the spread of scientific knowledge, children's culture and entertainment, sporting activities and assistance to underprivileged children, has significant domestic and international influence.

Honda Accord Coupe Concept to Debut at North American International Auto Show

2006-12-06T12:40:00.000+09:00

A bold new look for the next-generation Honda Accord Coupe will be unveiled at the January 2007 North American International Auto Show (NAIAS) in Detroit, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced.The Accord Coupe Concept will convey exterior styling cues and design features that provide a first look at the direction the next-generation Accord will take and it promises to set a new benchmark for Accord and for the segment. The Accord is Honda's best selling model in North America, and this vehicle's debut at NAIAS will mark the first time an Accord concept car has ever been shown at a major auto show.

Car and Driver magazine recently named the current-generation 2007 Honda Accord as one of the winners of its prestigious and highly competitive annual "10Best Cars" award. The Accord has achieved "10Best" status 21 times in the 25 years that Car and Driver editors have been conducting the competition, more than any other vehicle in the award's history.

SUBARU Forester is an Australian Best Car

2006-12-06T12:15:00.000+09:00

The symmetrical All-Wheel Drive Subaru Forester X has been named Best Recreational Four Wheel Drive in the Australia’s Best Cars awards.
The award from the nation’s combined motoring organizations maintains Forester’s status as one of the most decorated vehicles in the Australian automotive industry.
Cars were evaluated by the NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAASA, RACWA, RACT and AANT against a broad range of criteria including: on road performance, design and function and value for money.

Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior, said: “Forester was the original Compact Sports Utility Vehicle when it was launched in 1997 and pioneered this class of vehicle.
“We endeavour to refine Forester with the passing of each model year and this is reflected in its Best Cars success.
“The ABC judging process is renowned for its objectivity and is a rigorous process. As such, Forester buyers are safe in the knowledge that they’re getting a safe, reliable and well-specified vehicle. This is an award that we covet. It is meaningful, it is real and it is customer-based.”

Forester was Australia’s best-selling compact SUV in 2005.
It has a five-star crashworthiness rating for occupant safety from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP). It was the first compact SUV to achieve this rating and also the first Japanese vehicle to do so.
In February Forester passed the 80,000 sales mark in Australia and this year cumulative production passed one million worldwide.
Forester has found a niche with emergency services, including use as a rapid response paramedic ambulance in metropolitan Victoria and NSW, and general ambulance duties in rural locations.

NISSAN QASHQAI QUEUED UP FOR PRODUCTION

2006-12-05T12:35:00.000+09:00

Nissan’s latest model, the Qashqai, will begin rolling off the production line today at its plant in Sunderland.

Qashqai is a compact crossover, combining the best attributes of a traditional family hatchback with the option of advanced 4x4 capability.

Around 130,000 will be produced in Sunderland, alongside Note, Primera, Micra and Micra C+C, potentially increasing total annual volume to around 400,000 units by the end of 2007 – a plant record.

Qashqai’s arrival rounds off one of Sunderland’s busiest periods in its 20-year history with three new model launches within the last 16 months.

Vice President of UK Manufacturing, Trevor Mann, said: “This is a very important day for our plant as Qashqai will spearhead Nissan’s drive for sustained, profitable growth in Europe.

“As such, the Sunderland workforce has been given a great deal of responsibility. But they have earned the right to build this car through their continued hard work and excellent track record in terms of productivity and reliability.

“I would also like to thank both national and local government and regional development agencies for their continued support, as well as the unstinting efforts of all our suppliers.”

Qashqai represents a total investment of €322.8 M and will secure more than 3,000 jobs at the plant and within the regional supply chain. It has also created 200 temporary and 100 trainee posts at the plant.

Around 80% of Qashqai production will be exported, the majority for sale within Europe. The car will also be shipped to numerous overseas markets such as the Middle East, Australia, South Africa as well as Japan – making it only the second Sunderland-built model to be exported to the Japanese market. The first being the 1996 model Primera.

Furthermore, Qashqai is the first new model to be built down the plant’s recently installed ‘Nissan Integrated Manufacturing System’. This is a new, flexible line being adopted at Nissan plants around the world. Its many benefits over a conventional line include a shorter lead time, improved ergonomics, multi-model, random sequence production and increased integration with suppliers.

From today, the car will ramp up to full production volume in just 4 weeks, ensuring dealers across Europe are fully stocked ready for the car’s start of sale date at the end of February 2007.

Customers will be able to choose between 3 trim grades and 4 engines options. Two petrol units, a 1.6 and 2.0 litre, will be available in February, as will a 1.5 diesel. An all-new 2.0 diesel engine will join the line up from April next year.

Prices for all variants will be released before the end of December

NMUK, Sunderland Key Facts
・21 years of achievement
・Qashqai is NMUK’s 10th new model launch since production began in Sunderland over 20 years ago.
・Total investment to date of more than €3 billion,
・NMUK has been the UK’s biggest car exporter for six years and accounts for 20 per cent of the country’s total car production.
・315,000 cars manufactured in 2005.
・4,400 workforce
・Total production to date = 4 million units

Subaru sets November record

2006-12-05T12:15:00.000+09:00

Subaru set a new November sales record of 3221 vehicles, up 12.2 percent on the same month last year, according to official VFACTS figures released today.

Leading the Subaru charge was Forester, with 1362 sales, a massive 41 per cent ahead of the same month last year. The result represented a best ever November for Forester.

Strong Outback sales of 568 were also 10.9 per cent up on last November.
Combined Forester and Outback sales gave Subaru 27.8 percent of the Sports Utility Vehicle Compact segment.

Tribeca sold 126 since going on sale in mid-November.

Impreza sales of 629 and Liberty (Legacy) sales of 536 rounded out Subaru’s strong November result.

Honda Motor India Commences Operations, Beginning with HSCI Parts Operations

2006-12-01T12:41:00.000+09:00

Honda Motor India Pvt Ltd (HMI), the wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. formally began its operations from its corporate office in Greater Noida, UP.

The plan to set up HMI was first announced in July this year by Mr Takeo Fukui, President and CEO, Honda Motor Co., Ltd, during his visit to New Delhi.

Formation of HMI is part of the overall strategy to strengthen and integrate operations of Honda companies in India with respect to service parts.

HMI will begin its functions by immediately taking over the parts operations of Honda Siel Cars India Ltd. (HSCI) and gradually integrate operations of Honda Siel Power Products and Honda Motorcycles & Scooters India Pvt Ltd.

HMI will study the possibility of establishing a similar synergistic relationship with the fourth Honda company, Hero Honda Motors Ltd in the near future.

Starting with a capital is Rs 15 crore, HMI has targeted a turnover of Rs 180 crore for the fiscal 2008.

HMI will have a new warehouse facility to stock the service parts of motorcycles, automobiles and power products together which will be utilized along with other common resources like transportation, logistics and system development to help improve cost and operational efficiencies by up to 20%. This would ultimately result in overall benefit to customers by way of quality services like delivery within 24 hours and other cost advantages.

Masahiro Takedagawa, Operating Officer, Honda Motor Co., Ltd, who is also the President and CEO of HSCI, will head the new company as its President & CEO.

Company Information
Name: Honda Motor India Pvt Ltd.
Established: September 18, 2006
Starts operation: December 1, 2006
Location: Plot No. A-1, Sector 40/41, Surajpur-Kasna Road,
Distt. Gautam Budh Nagar (UP) - 201306
(With in the current site of Honda Siel Cars India Ltd.)
Capitalization Ratio: 100% Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Total Investment: About Rs 15 crore
President & CEO: Masahiro Takedagawa
Employment: 40 associates
Business: Parts operations

Honda Establishes Solar Cell Subsidiary Company, Honda Soltec to Make Full-Scale Entry into Solar Cell Business

2006-12-01T12:40:00.000+09:00

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced plans to establish a wholly-owned subsidiary, Honda Soltec Co., Ltd., which will produce and sell the next-generation thin film solar cell independently developed by Honda. The new company will lead Honda to make a full-scale entry into the solar cell business.

The next-generation solar cell to be produced and sold by Honda Soltec was developed by Honda Engineering Co., Ltd., the production engineering subsidiary of Honda. By using thin film made from a compound of copper, indium, gallium and selenium (CIGS), Honda’s next-generation solar cell achieves a major reduction in the amount of energy consumed during the manufacturing process by approximately 50% compared to what is required to produce conventional crystal silicon solar cells. This makes the new solar cell more environmentally-friendly by reducing the amount of CO2 generated even from the production stage.

At the end of September 2006, Honda began construction of a plant to mass produce solar cells within the current site of Honda’s Kumamoto factory, and the new facility will become operational in fall 2007 with an annual capacity of 27.5 megawatts. Prior to the start-up of the new plant, Honda Soltec will begin sales in limited areas in March 2007, of CIGS thin film compound solar cells produced by Honda Engineering. Once mass production begins at the new plant in Kumamoto in fall 2007, Honda Soltec will expand sales throughout Japan.

In addition to its effort to reduce CO2 emissions through development of clean automobile engines, Honda is committed to develop environmentally-friendly and sustainable energy technologies. Honda will contribute to the effort to prevent global warming through production and sales of a clean energy source which does not use fossil fuels.

About Honda Soltec Co., Ltd.
Establishment: December 1, 2006
Headquarters location: 1500 Hirakawa, Ozu-machi, Kikuchi-gun, Kumamoto
(within the current site of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. Kumamoto factory)
Sales office location: Wako, Saitama (plan)
Capital investment: 4 billion yen
Capitalization ratio: 100% Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Representative: President: Akio Kazusa
Employment: Approximately 150 associates (plan)
Business: Production and sale of solar cells

About the New plant:
Lot area: 25,000 square meters (m2)
Facility size: 11,080 square meters (m2)
Investment: Approximately 7 billion yen
Start of operation: Fall 2007 (plan)
Production capacity: Approximately 27.5 megawatts annually

Next Mazda Sub-Compact Car For Europe to Be Produced in HIROSHIMA, Japan

2006-12-01T12:25:00.000+09:00

Mazda Motor Corporation has announced that the company will build its next sub- compact car (B-car) for the European market at its Ujina Plant in Hiroshima, Japan, as part of ongoing efforts to take advantage of global manufacturing efficiencies.

“Currently production of the Mazda2 (known as the Demio in Japan) exists in Valencia, Spain and Hiroshima, Japan. Our intention is to consolidate production of the next B-car into one location in order to maximize the economies of scale and efficiencies that this would offer. After assessing all risks and opportunities, including exchange exposure and Asia's growth potential, it made sense to select Japan as the location,” says Mr. Hisakazu Imaki, Representative Director and Chairman of the Board, President and CEO of Mazda Motor Corporation.

“We made the decision to relocate to Hiroshima and consolidate the assembly of the next B-car in consultation with our partner, Ford Motor Company,” states Mr. Imaki, ” Mazda continues to be an important partner of Ford Motor Company, and our relationship is integral to our global automotive strategy. We will continue to pursue synergies wherever we can.”

Production of the Mazda2 in Europe commenced in 2003. It joined the ranks of Mazda's new generation products (beginning with the Atenza/Mazda6 launched in Japan and overseas in 2002) that personify the Zoom-Zoom brand message. The Mazda2 has played an important role in expanding Mazda's market share in the major markets such as Europe, and increasing the public awareness of the Mazda brand.

At the Valencia plant, over 143,000 Mazda2's have been built since production began in 2003. In Japan, production of the first generation Demio commenced in 1996 and the total domestic volume of all Demios/Mazda2's exceeded one million units by the end of September 2006.
The lively exterior design along with highly efficient packaging, enhanced quality interior and outstanding performance and safety helped these models gain a reputation ahead of other compact cars. Mazda has scheduled production of the next B-car to begin in 2007.

Ford of Europe has confirmed that the move will not adversely affect the Valencia assembly plant, where volume will be maintained through higher production of existing models.

Toyota to Conduct Road Tests of Vehicle-infrastructure Cooperative Systems that upport Safe Driving

2006-11-30T12:50:00.000+09:00

—Drive Recorders to Be Used to Aid Development, Improve Traffic Environment—

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today that it plans to conduct public-road tests of vehicle-infrastructure cooperative systems under a Driving Safety Support Systems (DSSS) verification program organized by the Universal Traffic Management Society of Japan (UTMS Japan) *1. The tests, to take place from December*2 in Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture, are being promoted by the Japanese National Police Agency and are to be conducted with the cooperation of the agency, the Aichi Prefectural Police and Toyota City.

TMC is conducting the tests as part of its efforts to develop—in addition to autonomous onboard safety devices—vehicle-infrastructure cooperative systems that provide drivers traffic information by way of the roadside infrastructure and that are aimed at helping reduce traffic accidents through the use of the latest Intelligent Transport Systems technologies. Such cooperative systems enable collaboration not only between vehicles and the roadside infrastructure, but also among vehicles and between vehicles and pedestrians*3. This effort is in line with TMC's Integrated Safety Management Concept announced in August.

With an aim toward reducing the dangers associated with vehicle use and realizing vehicles that do not cause accidents, TMC hopes this effort will lead to the development of such systems as intervention-type, infrastructure-linked systems capable of not only providing information, but also warning drivers and slowing and/or stopping vehicles.

As a part of its efforts to realize sustainable mobility, TMC intends to strengthen its traffic safety initiatives in the future through the development of even safer vehicles and technologies, participation in the creation of a safe traffic environment and engagement in activities designed to educate people in traffic safety. By doing so, TMC intends to be able to contribute to the complete elimination of traffic casualties, which can be viewed as the ultimate hope of a society that values mobility.

*1 UTMS Japan is engaged in the study and research and development of universal traffic management systems, such as DSSS. Universal traffic management systems provide traffic information to drivers in real time using infrared beacons that conduct two-way communications with individual vehicles; they also aim to achieve safe, comfortable and environmentally considerate mobility by actively managing traffic flows.

*2 UTMS Japan is scheduling a separate a test-drive demonstration from December 4 to 6 in Aichi Prefecture.

*3 Intelligent Transport Systems-based cooperative systems wirelessly receive information from communications infrastructure installed along the road and from other vehicles concerning, among others, traffic signs as well as objects that the driver cannot directly see. Such systems notify the driver of beyond-view traffic signs and/or objects to support safe driving and help prevent accidents. The New IT Reform Strategy announced in January 2006 by the Japanese government's IT Strategic Headquarters indicates polices such as conducting large-scale verification testing of DSSS on selected public roads by FY2008 through collaboration between the public and private sectors and deploying the systems throughout the country from the year starting April 2010, with a focus on sites where traffic accidents occur frequently.

Overview of TMC's Public-Road Tests
1. Test period/region and number of vehicles
Test period: December 4, 2006 to May 31, 2007 (approx. six months)
Test area: Toyota City, Aichi Prefecture
Number of vehicles: 100 vehicles equipped with drive recorders (50 of the 100 vehicles will have equipment to receive traffic control information from communications infrastructure)

2. Objectives of public-road tests
The tests, which will gather and analyze data on driver behavior under a variety of driving conditions, will be conducted to estimate the extent to which vehicle-infrastructure cooperative systems can contribute to reducing traffic accidents. The focus will be on how the presence or absence of information on traffic signals (red lights) and stop signs transmitted by communications infrastructure affects the traffic-accident rates at intersections known to have a high rate of accidents. The results will be applied to the development of vehicle-infrastructure cooperative systems and to ongoing research aimed at improving traffic environments.

3. Features of effect analysis
The public-road tests featuring vehicles equipped with drive recorders that record the view in front of the vehicles and driver behavior will allow for the gathering of detailed real-world data on changes in driver behavior under various driving and traffic conditions. The data will be analyzed and estimates will be made of the accident-reduction effects of the systems in pursuit of safety under actual driving conditions. This will also contribute to the development of safety technologies and systems, based on TMC's Integrated Safety Management Concept, aimed at creating vehicles that do not cause accidents.

4. Methods for transmitting and receiving road information
Communications equipment using infrared beacons will be installed at five intersections in Toyota City that have high accident rates to transmit information concerning traffic signals (red lights) and stop signs. In the participating vehicles, the information will be received by a special on-board navigation system and provided to the driver via a display screen.

5. Data analysis and verification categories
1)Estimating traffic-accident-reduction effects of information provision
Estimates will be made of the traffic-accident-reduction effects of providing intersection information to drivers by gathering and analyzing data on driver behavior (such as deceleration before reaching intersections), based on the presence or absence of information concerning red lights and stop signs.

2)Verification of maintainability of traffic-accident-reduction effects
To verify the maintainability of the expected traffic-accident-reduction effects, quantitative measures will be taken throughout the test period concerning how driver behavior is affected by driver habituation to the provision of information. Based on the hypothesis that "the provision of information alone will have declining accident-reduction effects", the results of the verification will be used in the development of systems that enhance traffic-accident-reduction effects and their maintainability through coordination with driver warnings and onboard vehicle control systems.

3)Analysis of driver behavior under a variety of conditions
Drive recorders will be used to collect detailed data on driver behavior, immediate-vicinity traffic conditions, etc. in various situations, including "near miss"-type situations (such as sudden braking that does not result in an accident). Such data will be analyzed for use in the development of future systems and in the study of measures to improve the traffic environment.

Traffic signal information system
Regulation (road sign, etc.) communication systemSource: UTMS Japan

For reference

Integrated Safety Management Concept
Toyota's safety technology and vehicle development aims to provide optimal driving support based on driving conditions, not only by integrating individual safety technologies and systems in the vehicle, but also by adopting vehicle-infrastructure cooperative systems (road-to-vehicle) and using information obtained from vehicles other than the driver's (vehicle-to-vehicle), to enhance synergistic effects.

Higher levels of safety are being pursued in five types of situations categorized by the degree of risk of an accident: parking, active safety, pre-crash safety, passive safety and emergency response. By increasing such integration even further in the future, Toyota seeks to reduce dangers related to vehicle use in the pursuit of vehicles that do not cause accidents.

Integration of individual technologies and systems*1 Vehicle Stability Control
*2 Anti-lock Brake System
*3 Global Outstanding Assessment

Future technologies of vehicle-infrastructure cooperative systems
In the future, it is envisioned that roadside sensors and vehicle-infrastructure cooperative systems that link vehicles with other vehicles and vehicles with pedestrians (road-to-vehicle, vehicle-to-vehicle and pedestrian-to-vehicle communication systems) will be introduced to try to prevent traffic accidents that are difficult to prevent using just vehicles' autonomous safety systems, particularly in cases in which information cannot be detected visually by drivers or by on-board sensors (such as information on other vehicles at intersections) or traffic regulation information (such as information on the cycle of traffic signals, "STOP" information, etc.)

Traffic signal information system
Approaching-vehicle detection system Pedestrian detection system
Regulation (road sign, etc.) information system
Intersection blind spot image transmission system

Acura 'Advanced Sedan Concept' Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show

2006-11-30T12:43:00.000+09:00

"The Advanced Sedan Concept illustrates Acura's commitment to modern design and cutting-edge style," said John Mendel, senior vice president, auto operations."With our advanced design team taking a significant role in shaping future vehicle design, we can expect upcoming products to reflect this progressive, forward-thinking styling."Acura Advanced Sedan Concept.

The Advanced Sedan Concept is the purest expression of advanced design, performance and luxury, highlighted by its powerful, wide stance and deeply sculpted surfaces. The primary goal of this design study was to create a sophisticated, refined sedan with a mysterious presence.

The concept's generous exterior proportions suggest that a large, powerful engine lurks beneath the surface. The exterior lines reveal a sheer, sculpted lower body contrasted with a taut, architectural cabin. Although ultra-modern in its design, the concept retains the classic silhouette associated with a flagship sedan.

Low to the ground, the concept is anchored by large 22 inch front and 23 inch rear tires which are mounted to custom billet-machined, polished aluminum wheels. Powerful brake discs and calipers accent the wheels and large ducts direct cooling air to the components. Bold wheel arches and flares add to the concept's muscular appearance.

The sleek, compact cockpit nestles atop the sculpted body and flows from hood to trunk. For a unique panoramic view, the roof is constructed entirely of tinted glass that shades the occupants while still connecting them to the outside world.

"We wanted to capture the essence of an ultra luxurious sedan but give it a striking, mysterious presence to create a vehicle with a dual personality," said Dave Marek, chief designer, Honda R&D Americas, Inc. "The concept echoes this quality with its clean exterior lines, a wide, stance, high performance cues and key luxury accents."

The hood is accented with pronounced character lines that culminate in the aggressive five-sided grille, which contributes to the sedan's bold presence. The commanding grille is constructed of polished aluminum and features a cut crystal Acura emblem. The narrow headlights also double as air intakes and are positioned low on the bumper, further enhancing the sedan's already commanding 79.5 inch width.

"The front of the sedan communicates power and luxury," explains Marek. "The pronounced hood and large grille communicate performance, while the jewel-like Acura emblem captures the essence of pure luxury."

In the rear, the Advanced Sedan Concept has a flush mounted rear bumper with the high-mounted stop lamp integrated into the center break of the trunk. The jeweledtaillights are pushed to the outer edge of the bumper to further enhance the vehicle's wide and low appearance, while integrated dual exhaust outlets complement the sedan's performance-oriented style.

During the past decade, several Acura vehicles have been designed and developed in the U.S. including the award winning MDX luxury SUV, the innovative TL performance luxury sedan and the all-new RDX turbocharged crossover SUV. Acura will continue the expansion of its U.S. design capabilities with the addition of a dedicated Acura Design Center that will open next year in Torrance, Ca.

Honda FCX Concept on Display at Los Angeles Auto Show

2006-11-30T12:42:00.000+09:00

-Fully functional next-generation fuel cell vehicle makes first public debut in U.S.-

A fully-functional Honda FCX Concept vehicle will be on display for the first time to the general public at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The FCX Concept features a newly developed compact, high-efficiency Honda FC Stack as well as a low-floor, low-riding, short-nose body. It offers a comfortably large cabin and futuristic styling along with significant improvements in power output and environmental performance. Limited marketing of a totally new fuel cell vehicle based on this concept model is to begin in 2008 in Japan and the U.S.Honda FCX Concept.

To meet Honda objectives for significant gains in both environmental and driving performance, the FCX Concept is equipped with a V Flow fuel cell platform consisting of a compact, high-efficiency fuel cell stack arranged in an innovative center-tunnel layout. This has allowed designers to create an elegant, low-riding, sedan form that would have been difficult to achieve in a conventional fuel cell vehicle. This new fuel cell stack is 20 percent smaller and 30 percent lighter than the current FCX FC Stack, yet its power output is 14kW greater. The drive motor has been positioned coaxially with the gearbox for a more compact design, with output increased by 15kW. Overall, the power plant is about 180kg lighter than that of the current FCX and about 40 percent smaller in volume. The result is improved energy efficiency and performance along with a more spacious interior.

While with previous fuel cell stacks the hydrogen and the water formed in electricity generation flowed horizontally, the new FCX Concept features vertical-flow design. This allows gravity to assist in discharging the water that is produced, resulting in a major improvement in water drainage, key to high-efficiency fuel stack performance. The result is stable power generation under a broad range of conditions, and higher output from a smaller package. Low-temperature startup has also been significantly improved, enabling cold-weather starts at temperatures 10ºC lower than the current FCX - as low as minus 30ºC.

As an auxiliary power source, the FCX Concept carries a compact, high-efficiency lithium ion battery, contributing to increased power output and a more compact power plant. These efficiency improvements to major power plant components give the vehicle a travel range approximately 30 percent greater than the current FCX. The vehicle is also highly efficient, with an energy efficiency of around 60 percent -- approximately three times that of a gasoline-engine vehicle, twice that of a hybrid vehicle, and 10 percent better than the current FCX.

Other features include seat upholstery and door linings made from Honda Bio-Fabric, a plant-based material that offers outstanding durability and resistance to sunlight damage. Other improvements such as Shift-by-Wire and a newly designed instrument panel with easy-to-read display of hydrogen fuel consumption facilitate improved ease of operation.

The new fuel cell vehicle currently under development for release in 2008, will feature the principle technologies of the FCX Concept to achieve a new dimension in environmentally friendly driving pleasure not found with gasoline-engine vehicles.

Honda REMIX Concept Shines Brightly at Los Angeles Auto Show

2006-11-30T12:41:00.000+09:00

-Styling concept mixes sports car attitude with everyday functionality-

The Honda REMIX small sport concept vehicle made its world debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced. The REMIX explores the shape and design of a two-seat sports car focused on agile and fun-to-drive performance that can also provide exceptional practicality as a daily driver.The Honda REMIX concept vehicle was revealed at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show (November).

Sports car in shape and design, the low-slung REMIX features a wrap-around canopy that adds a fighter jet-feel to the driving experience. The aluminum-color exterior accentuates every line and curve in the geometric, yet fluid styling. Capable of delivering more than just driving performance, the rear storage area supplies generous cargo room.

"Pure Honda to the core, the REMIX concept vehicle focuses on a simple, lightweight and fun-to-drive philosophy," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "The concept balances sports car virtues with real-world practicality."

The REMIX Small Sport Concept is a product of the Honda R&D Americas, Inc., Advanced Design Studio in Southern California. Purely a design concept, the vehicle is fashioned around a front-wheel drive small car platform with a 4-cylinder engine and a 6-speed manual transmission. A sport suspension, along with aggressive tires and brakes, further supplement its performance side.

"The REMIX blends familiar Honda themes into a new, fresh design," said Ben Davidson, REMIX lead designer, Honda R&D Americas, Inc. "Smooth and fluid surfaces provide a sports car identity to the geometric shapes that form the functional aspect of this vehicle."

Honda R&D Americas, Inc., began its operations in California in 1975 with local market research activities and has steadily grown its capabilities over the past 30 years to include all aspects of new vehicle design and development. Recent development efforts include trend-setting products like the Honda Ridgeline, Pilot, Element, Civic Coupe and Civic Si.

The company will operate 10 major facilities in North America with the addition of two new design centers by the end of 2007. More than 1,300 designers, engineers and support personnel are engaged in the development of Honda and Acura passenger cars, motorcycles and power equipment products for North America and global markets. Its main centers of operation include the Los Angeles Center (Torrance) responsible for market research, concept development and styling design; the Ohio Center (Raymond, Ohio) responsible for complete product development, testing and support of North American supplier and manufacturing operations; and two dynamic test facilities in Mojave Desert, California, and East Liberty, Ohio.

Live Large in the Compact Honda Step Bus Concept

2006-11-30T12:40:00.000+09:00

-Styling concept takes 'man maximum, machine minimum' philosophy to the extreme-

Designed around high energy lifestyles, the Honda Step Bus Concept represents the ultimate expression of Honda packaging prowess with a mid-engine design and a fully maximized and quickly adaptable interior.The Honda Step Bus concept vehicle was revealed at the 2006 Los Angeles Auto Show (November).

The highly configurable, high-tech interior provides ultimate urban utility from the outside in. Sliding front doors with a space efficient design let people enter and exit in tight spaces. Although micro in exterior size, the cavernous interior can harbor large amounts of band equipment, sports gear and other bulky items.

"Following the traditional Honda theme of 'man maximum, machine minimum,' the Step Bus seeks to create the largest possible interior with the smallest possible exterior," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. "This innovative concept vehicle shows how large functionality can easily exist within small vehicle packages."

The Step Bus Concept is a product of the Honda R&D Co., Ltd., Wako design center in Saitama prefecture, Japan. Purely a styling concept, the vehicle uses a mid-engine, rear wheel drive platform with a small displacement power plant. The 5-passenger interior features modular construction with a spacious interior. The modular construction is highlighted by tracks in the door that can hold beverage containers, cell phones and more. Advanced technology includes a next-generation navigation system. The tall body provides room for a ceiling-mounted storage tray. Painted in light green metallic, the body design embraces a bold vertical architecture style that creates a large presence within a small space.

Nissan Thailand to export Tiida to Australia

2006-11-30T12:35:00.000+09:00

Siam Nissan Automobile announced today that it will begin export of the new Nissan Tiida compact sedan and hatchback to Australia on November 30, 2006. This move underscores Nissan’s long-term commitment to turn it’s Thailand facility into a world-class production hub for exports. The Tiida, to be built at the Nissan Bangna Trad plant located about 20 kilometers east of Bangkok, will be manufactured using up to 75% local parts content and will be the first of Nissan’s completely built-up (CBU) vehicles to be exported to Australia under the Thai-Australian Free Trade Agreement.

Thierry Viadieu, President of Siam Nissan Automobile, said, “The Tiida export program demonstrates Thailand’s vision to become a major automotive production hub of Asia. To date, SNA has been exporting small volumes of Nissan Frontier pickups and Tiida hatchbacks to Indonesia, and the expansion of our export program to Australia is confirmation of the highest level of manufacturing quality at our Bangna Trad facility as well as the rapid growth observed in the Thai automotive parts and components industry.”

The Tiida export program to Australia will include both hatch and sedan variants powered by Nissan’s 1.8-litre DOHC 16-valve engines. SNA expects to export over 15,000 units of Tiida, or the equivalent of 5.8billion Baht (USD150million) in export value, by the end of 2007. “While our plant’s current production is running around 46,000 units per year, we are confident that we will increase capacity four-fold as additional new export markets come on line,” said Viadieu.

In 2005, SNA had announced an incremental 29billion Baht (USD 757 million) investment to expand and upgrade its existing facility and prepare it for development into a world-class production hub for exports. Expansion and upgrade plans include the addition of new jig robots, tooling, computer systems, expansion of new production and assembly lines, stamping, body and paint shops.

The Bangna Trad plant has adopted the Nissan Production Way (NPW) and Nissan Integrated Manufacturing System (NIMS) that represent the Nissan international standard for manufacturing worldwide. The NPW and NIMS allow Nissan to maintain flexible and integrated manufacturing at supplier, global and logistics levels, and keep lead times short.

“More specifically in Thailand, we have the added benefit of a large skilled automotive workforce, a highly developed parts and components industry, good transport and logistics infrastructure, as well as favorable policies to promote a stronger automotive industry in Thailand. To this end, SNA is fully committed to contribute to the burgeoning growth of Thailand’s domestic and export automotive industry,” added Viadieu.

Under the three-year Nissan Value-Up business plan, Thailand has been identified as one of the Leading Competitive Countries (LCC) marked for significant growth. In July this year Nissan Motor Company announced the establishment of a Parts Consolidation Center, a new auto-parts export base in Thailand to supply parts to its manufacturing plants worldwide. The auto-parts export base is expected to export about 11. 5 billion baht (USD300 million) worth of parts a year, making it Nissan’s second-largest parts exporting base after Japan.

###

Siam Nissan Automobile was established in 2004 with two assembly plants located in Bangna Trad Kilometer 21 and 22. Since 2004, SNA has launched 6 models altogether namely - Teana, X-Trail, Murano, Tiida sedan, Tiida hatchback, and Urvan.

Honda Releases the New EU55is Ultra-Quiet GeneratorEquipped with Sine-wave Inverter

2006-11-29T12:41:00.000+09:00

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. announced the release of the new EU55is, an ultra-quiet, high-output electrical generator (rated output: 5.5kVA) capable of simultaneous 100V and 200V single-phase1 current output. The new generator will go on sale starting December 1, 2006 at Honda power product dealers throughout Japan, with subsequent release to North American and European markets beginning in January 2007.
EU55is ultra-quiet generator equipped with sine-wave inverter

The EU55is employs Honda’s original sine-wave inverter technology to deliver high-quality electrical output in a compact, low-noise design. Its ability to simultaneously output 100V and 200V single-phase current makes it ideal for both commercial and emergency use. In addition, noise reduction measures including double-layer soundproof construction for the engine compartment and a tri-compartment configuration with separate intake, engine, and exhaust compartments for improved liquid cooling and a significant reduction in intake and exhaust noise combine to place the EU55is at the top of its class2 for low-noise operation. Its sound power level3 is about three decibels4 lower than a comparable liquid-cooled-engine, low-noise electrical generator5 in the same power output class. Not only can this versatile unit be used for powering computer equipment, as an emergency power source, and for leisure activities, it is also capable of powering large electrical tools, 200V household appliances, and other heavy-duty power equipment.
1 Single phase: The AC power source most commonly used for general household use. Supplied via two electrical wires.
2 4-stroke engine-equipped generator with 4.5~5.5kVA output. According to Honda survey.
3 Device’s sound power level (LwA) based on ISO 3744 standards
4 Measured at half-load. Honda calculations.
5 EX5000

In 1998, Honda released its next-generation, ultra-quiet electrical generator series, the EU9i, EU24i, and EU28is (rated output: 900VA, 2.4kVA, and 2.8kVA respectively). These compact, lightweight generators employed original sine-wave inverter technology to deliver high-quality electrical output. Honda has been expanding the series lineup ever since, earning a sterling reputation and achieving cumulative worldwide sales of over one million units6.

With the introduction of the EU55is, which is capable of handling demands for high-quality, high-output electrical power, simultaneously outputting 100V and 200V single-phase current, Honda is seeking to further expand into new markets for emergency power sources in all-electronic residential applications and more.
6 Sales from April 1998 to the end of March, 2006

Key Features of the EU55is
Ultra-low noise
· Measures including double-layer soundproof construction for the engine compartment and a tri-compartment configuration with separate intake, engine, and exhaust compartments for improved liquid cooling and noise reduction, along with a centralized intake and exhaust system for smoother overall air flow, combine to place the EU55is at the top of its class for low-noise operation. In comparisons of sound power levels under half-load conditions, the EU55is is approximately 3dB(A) quieter than the EX5000 (a comparable liquid-cooled-engine, low-noise generator in the same power output class). It is approx. 7.5dB(A) lower than the EM55is (an open-style, inverter-equipped generator in the same power output class) under half-load conditions, and approximately 9dB(A) quieter under rated output loads.

· The EU55is is officially designated as ultra-low-noise construction equipment under Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport noise regulations.

Compact & lightweight
· Honda’s originally designed compact, high-efficiency electrical generation system with high-speed, multi-pole inverter is featured, to achieve a size reduction of approximately 33%1 and a weight reduction of approximately 34%2 compared to the EX5000.
1 Volume comparison
2 Dry weight comparison

Fuel efficient
· Honda's dual-voltage mechanism capable of simultaneous 100V and 200V single-phase current output, high-efficiency inverter combines with the Eco-Throttle system to allow engine speed to be adjusted automatically for an optimum match with the power requirements of the device in use, resulting in at least 20% higher fuel efficiency* than the EX5000.

* At 1/4 load, with Eco-Throttle in operation

High Quality Electrical Output
· The EU55is is capable of supplying high-quality, high-output power on par with that available from commercial sources, making it ideal for powering computer equipment, communications equipment, measurement devices, IH household cooking appliances, and other types of equipment sensitive to frequency and voltage fluctuations.

i-Monitor shows operating conditions at a glance
· An i-Monitor with LCD display indicates total operating time, output, engine speed, and simple self-diagnostic functions in real time.

Outstanding maneuverability
· A one-touch folding handle and oversized wheels (standard equipment) ensure carefree mobility.

Honda to Build New Motorcycle Plant in Peru

2006-11-29T12:40:00.001+09:00

Honda del Peru S.A. (HDP) announced plans to establish a wholly-owned manufacturing subsidiary, Honda Selva del Peru S.A. (HSP), which will begin construction of a new plant in Iquitos, Loreto, in December. HSP will begin production of motorcycles in 2007, in order to meet growing demand in Peru.

The motorcycle market in Peru has been growing rapidly since 2004. The total market reached approximately 63,000 units in 2005, a 29% increase from 2004, and is expected to reach 90,000 units in 2006. Moreover, in the near future, the overall market in Peru is expected to reach the level of 200,000 units annually, due to the continuous growth of population and income average.

Honda’s motorcycle sales in Peru reached approximately 12,000 units in 2005, a 35% increase from 2004. Honda expects to sell approximately 20,000 units in 2006, with further expansion expected in the future.

HSP will be built in the Selva (Amazon) area with a capital investment of US$2 million. The plant will have an annual capacity of 25,000 units. The new 6,500m2 plant building will be located on a 30,000m2 site and will begin production of the first model, NXR125, in late 2007. The potential capacity is expandable up to 100,000 units in the future with additional expansion of the building and the equipment.

Honda will continue to provide attractive products in a timely manner in order to meet market demand and the growing needs of its customers.

Honda del Peru S.A.
Establishment: January 1974
Began Operations: October 1976
Location: Lima, Peru
Capital Investment: US$ 12.52 million
Capitalization Ratio: 100% Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Representative: Terumi Shibasaki, President
Business: Import and sales of Honda motorcycles, automobiles, and power products
Employment: 71 associates (as of October 2006)

Honda Selva del Peru S.A.
Establishment: September 2006
Production start: The latter half of 2007
Location: Iquitos, Loreto, Peru
Capital Investment: US$ 2 million
Capitalization Ratio: 100% Honda del Peru S.A.
Representative: Terumi Shibasaki, President
Business: Production of Honda motorcycles
Annual capacity: 25,000 units
Employment: 34 associates (as of the latter half of 2007)
Production model: NXR125

NISSAN OPENS NEW GENERATION GLOBAL TRAINING CENTER

2006-11-29T12:40:00.000+09:00

- Training facility to focus on Nissan Production Way -

Nissan Motor Co., today opened the Nissan Global Training Center (GTC) located at its Oppama Plant in Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture. The 300 million yen state-of-the-art facility been established to train Nissan’s global manufacturing employees to become experts in the Nissan Production Way (NPW).

Spanning 6,500 square meters, the new training facility is open to employees from Nissan’s manufacturing facilities worldwide. As part of an ongoing program to ensure a consistently high level of quality in all its global operations, Nissan has implemented the Nissan Production Way across all of its manufacturing facilities worldwide, and continues to train, develop and educate its employees worldwide through the Master Trainer Program (i.e. train the trainer program).

At the newly completed GTC, trainees are exposed to classroom-style instruction as well as actual hands-on training on real-world production lines integrated into the Oppama plant. The GTC offers a wide training curriculum including vehicle manufacturing (bodies, assembly, paint, etc.), power-train manufacturing, logistics, quality assurance and plant management and maintenance.

The NPW training module has been calibrated and standardized to apply to all Nissan facilities worldwide. Technological-competence is an important focus of the training, thus special attention is paid to visualization teaching techniques incorporating graphic manuals that are easily accessible on-line via a computer during training. Currently, standard training manuals available in six languages are used at the GTC and other regional training centers.

Trainees will receive certification as Master Trainers upon completion of the training course that qualify them to take on the role as “trainer” when they return to their respective manufacturing bases. These certified trainers are then assigned with new or added responsibilities to train their local employees using a globally standardized curriculum and training equipments.

The Master Trainer Program has been extremely successful in deploying the NPW worldwide. As of November 29, a total of 138 Master Trainers had been certified and are engaged in personnel training and technology education across Nissan’s 14 regional training centers around the world.

Under the Nissan Value-Up business plan, the company plans to execute 70 production launches worldwide, stemming from 28 all-new products. Consequently, the role of the GTC in the training and development of its global employees is a key part of the company’s ability to launch each product successfully.

In addition to the GTC, Nissan’s various other training programs include the Global Production Engineering Center in Zama City, Kanagawa Prefecture and the Global Launch Expert program, where a dedicated Launch Expert is deployed to the regions to ensure the flawless production launch of a new product.

Nissan has also been working to globally disseminate its core expertise in engine, transmission and driveline manufacturing technology through the establishment of the Powertrain Training Center at its Yokohama Plant last January.

The Oppama Plant is one of Nissan’s largest domestic plants and produces about 330,000 vehicles a year, mainly compact cars including the Note, Cube and Tiida.

The Nissan Global Training Center
· Location: Oppama Plant (Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture) and Yokohama Plant
(Yokohama City, Kanagawa Prefecture)
· Area: about 6,500 square meters (two locations)
· Investment: About 300 million yen
· Training curriculum:
1. Vehicle production (bodies, assembly, paint, etc.)
2. Power-train production (Yokohama Plant)
3. Logistics
4. Quality assurance
5. plant management and maintenance
· Training periods: 2weeks-3 months, depending on the program
· Center employees: 35 in total including 20 Global Master Trainers in charge of training,

SUBARU Growth in airbags makes new cars safer

2006-11-29T12:15:00.000+09:00

Official ANCAP Press release:
The Subaru Tribeca scored 5 stars in the latest ANCAP crash test results.

Other results released for vehicles tested in Australia were the Nissan Maxima, Honda Odyssey and Holden Viva with 4 stars and the Mitsubishi Colt with 3 stars.

Vehicles tested by European NCAP and also available in Australia included the Lexus IS250 and Mercedes B Class with 5 stars; and the Land Rover Discovery, Kia Carnival and Mazda3 with 4 stars.

“In addition to good scores in this release of results, it is encouraging that almost all the vehicles here have a full complement of front, side and head protecting curtain airbags,” said ANCAP’s Chair, Mr Lauchlan McIntosh.

ANCAP has advocated for several years now that all vehicles should have a 6 airbag package and Electronic Stability Control as a minimum safety specification.

“We are pleased that manufacturers are responding to ANCAP’s call for a full airbag package in new vehicles.”

Mr McIntosh cautioned that curtains are not standard on all variants of the Honda Odyssey, Nissan Maxima, Kia Carnival and Mazda3 although the tested vehicles had them.

Curtains are optional for the Mitsubishi Colt and the variant tested was not fitted with them.

Mr McIntosh, said while the airbag availability was pleasing, the installation rate of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) was not as high.

About 20% of new passenger vehicles sold in Australia have ESC.

“This is a good start and we would like manufacturers and importers to fit ESC as a standard feature in all Australian vehicles as quickly as possible,” Mr McIntosh continued.

The Subaru Tribeca, Nissan Maxima, Lexus IS250, Land Rover Discovery and Mercedes B-Class are the only models here to have ESC fitted across all variants.

ESC is available on all Mazda 3 and Kia Carnival variants and standard on the Ralliart variant of the Mitsubishi Colt.

However, ESC is not available on any variant of the Holden Viva and Honda Odyssey.
Stability Control has been shown to reduce the risk of being involved in a crash in the first place, thereby reducing injuries overall.

Pedestrian tests on the Honda Odyssey, Lexus IS250, Mazda3, Mercedes B class, Holden Viva and Nissan Maxima gave two star results, with the Land Rover Discovery, Mitsubishi Colt and Kia Carnival producing one star results.

ANCAP encourage new vehicle buyers to consider selecting vehicles with a full 6 airbag package and Electronic Stability Control.

The crash test procedures conducted by ANCAP involve a frontal test at 64 km/h where part of the vehicle hits a barrier, and a side impact test at 50 km/h. The vehicles also undergo a test to assess likely injuries caused to pedestrians by a vehicle travelling at 40 km/h.

A pole test is optional, where the vehicle travelling sideways at 29 km/h strikes a round pole lined up with the driver’s head. This measures the effectiveness of head protecting side airbags and can result in extra points being scored.

Pole tests were conducted for the Subaru Tribeca, Holden Viva, Nissan Maxima, Mazda3, Land Rover Discovery, Lexus IS250, Mercedes Benz B-Class and Kia Carnival and confirmed that serious head injury was unlikely.

Previous pole tests conducted by ANCAP show that, at this speed, a fatal head injury is almost certain without head-protecting side airbags.

The results from ANCAP provide consumers with valuable information on the occupant protection performance of new vehicles.

ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, all State governments, the New Zealand government and the FIA Foundation.

Toyota Announces Results for October 2006

2006-11-27T12:50:00.000+09:00

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today the production, sales in Japan and export results of TMC and subsidiaries Daihatsu Motor Co., Ltd. and Hino Motors, Ltd., for October 2006.

October 2006 Highlights
[PRODUCTION IN JAPAN]
(Toyota)
Fourteenth consecutive month of increase

(Daihatsu)
Eighth consecutive month of increase

(Hino)
Decrease

(Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino)
Fourteenth consecutive month of increase

[SALES IN JAPAN]
(Toyota)
Decrease
49.4% share of market, excluding minivehicles and a record high for the month of October
4,168 units in sales of Lexus vehicles

(Daihatsu)
First decrease in three months
31.4% share of the minivehicle market

(Hino)
First decrease in fourteen months
29.8% share of the truck market

(Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino)
Decrease
44.1% share of market, including minivehicles

[EXPORTS]
(Toyota)
Eleventh consecutive month of increase

(Daihatsu)
Eighth consecutive month of increase

(Hino)
Tenth consecutive month of increase

(Toyota + Daihatsu + Hino)
Eleventh consecutive month of increase

[OVERSEAS PRODUCTION]
(Toyota)
Fifty-eighth consecutive month of increase, due to increased production in almost all regions, and a record high for the month of October

(Daihatsu)
Decrease, due to decreased production in Indonesia

(Toyota + Daihatsu)
Fifty-eighth consecutive month of increase and a record high for the month of October

Honda Achieves Record Monthly Worldwide, Domestic and Overseas Auto Production

2006-11-27T12:40:00.000+09:00

Honda Motor Co., Ltd., announced its automobile production, domestic sales, and export results for the month of October 2006.

[Production]
For the fifteenth consecutive month since August 2005, worldwide production increased in October over the same month a year ago. Honda achieved a new monthly record for the month of October.

Mainly due to an increase in production for overseas market, it is the fifth consecutive month since June 2006 for a year on year increase in Japan domestic production. Honda achieved a new monthly record for the month of October.

Due to production increases in North America and in Asia, overseas production increased compared to the same month a year ago for the fifteenth consecutive month since August 2005. Honda achieved a new monthly record for overseas production for the month of October, including record production in North America and in Asia.

[Japan Domestic Sales]
Total domestic sales decreased compared to the same month a year ago for the first time in the last two months since August 2006.

Due to decreased sales of Air Wave and Step Wagon, it is the seventh consecutive month, since April 2006 that new vehicle registrations declined compared with sales in October 2005.

Mainly due to a decrease in sales of Life, mini-vehicle sales decreased compared to the same month a year ago for the first time in the last eight months since February 2006.

[Vehicle registrations ~ excluding mini vehicles]
Stream was the industry’s fourth best selling car among new vehicle registrations for the month of October, with sales of 6,993 units, it was Honda’s best selling car for the month of October. Fit ranked as the industry’s fifth best selling car among new vehicle registrations for the month of October, with sales of 6,723 units.

[Mini vehicles ~ under 660cc]
Life ranked as the industry’s sixth best selling vehicle among mini vehicles, with sales of 6,146 units. Zest was the industry’s tenth best selling vehicle among mini vehicles for the month of October, with sales of 4,776 units.

[Exports from Japan]
Primarily due to increase in exports to North America, total exports increased over the same month a year ago for the fifth consecutive month since June 2006.

Nissan Production, Sales, Export Results for October

2006-11-27T12:35:00.000+09:00

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today announced its production, sales and export figures for October.

1.Production
Nissan’s global production rose year-on-year for the first time in 10 months, rising 5.9% to 294,677 units.

Japan’s production of the all-new Infiniti G35 (Skyline in Japan), Murano and Infiniti FX rose year-on-year. However, lower production of other models pushed overall domestic production down slightly from the previous year, with output falling 0.5% to 101,619 units.

Overseas production rose year-on-year for first time in seven months, rising 9.5% to 193,058 units. US production rose year-on-year by 0.5% to 72,562 units due to the start of production of the all-new Altima to be released in November and increased output of the Frontier, Quest, and Pathfinder. In Mexico, production rose significantly year-on-year, rising 43.6% to 44,778 units, due to the start of production of the all-new Sentra.

In the UK, production rose 13.3% year-on-year to 29,218 units. Production in Spain rose 10.5% year-on-year to 21,696 units due to robust demand for light commercial vehicles, such as the Navara and Primastar. In Nissan’s General Overseas Markets (all markets excluding Japan, the US, and Europe), production decreased 9.8% year-on-year to 24,804 units.

2.Sales
The Wingroad and Bluebird Sylphy released in November and December of last year recorded higher sales in Japan compared with the previous year. However, Nissan’s total registrations fell 8.2% to 39,448 units, dropping for the 13th straight month, amid lower sales of other models.

Including mini-vehicles, Nissan’s domestic sales rose 1.6% to 51,809 units, rising year-on-year for the first time in 13 months, due to strong sales of the all-new Otti released in October. Nissan’s market share of registrations in Japan stood at 14.9%, down 0.4 percentage points compared with the previous year. Its market share including mini-vehicles rose 0.7 percentage points from the previous year to 12.6%.

Sales in the US rose 3.9% to 75,095 units, recording the first year-on-year increase in eight months, amid strong sales of the all-new Sentra and all-new Versa (Tiida in Japan). The Murano and Altima achieved record sales in October.

In Europe, sales rose 41.4% year-on-year to 41,064 units.

3.Japan Exports
Nissan’s exports declined 1.7% to 58,867 units in October.
Shipments to North America rose 10.3% to 24,316 units.
Exports to Europe rose 10.8% year-on-year to 7,005 units.

Mazda Production and Sales Results for October 2006

2006-11-27T12:25:00.000+09:00

Mazda's production and sales results for October 2006 show that domestic production has exceeded that for the same month in the previous year for 12 consecutive months since November 2005. Export figures have also exceeded those from the same month in the previous year for 15 consecutive months since August 2005. October 2006 was the single best month for both domestic production and exports in the last ten years.

I. Domestic Production
Domestic production volumes for October 2006 exceeded the figures from the same month last year by 17.8% due to the increased production volumes of the CX-7, Mazda5, and Mazda3.

II. Domestic Sales
Domestic sales volumes for October 2006 were down 18.8% on October 2005. This is attributable to steady sales of the Mazda3 and Verisa being offset by decreased sales of commercial vehicles and the aging of the current Mazda2 model. Mazda's registered vehicle market share in Japan was 5.2% (down 0.8 points from October 2005) with a 2.3% share of the micro-mini segment (down 0.6 points year-on-year) and a 4.2% total market share (down 0.8 points from the same month last year).

III. Exports
Exports exceeded the figure for the same month last year, up 10.9%, due to the rise in CX-7 and Mazda5 exports. On a market basis, exports to North America showed steady growth, reaching 23,226 units (up 44.9% year-on-year) mostly attributable to increased exports of the CX-7 and Mazda3.

IV. Overseas Production
Note: Overseas production units are calculated based on the parts and component shipments for Mazda brand models to be assembled at overseas production facilities

Overseas production figures remain largely unchanged from the same month last year. Production of the Mazda6 in China and Mazda3 in Taiwan decreased year-on-year. Conversely, production of the BT-50 in Thailand was strong, reaching 4,467 units (up 121.9% year-on-year).

Mitsubishi Motors Announces Production, Sales and Exports for October 2006

2006-11-27T12:20:00.000+09:00

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today announced global production, as well as domestic sales and export results for October 2006.
Total global production came in at 108,087 units, a decline of 6.3 percent from a year ago period. Japanese production increased 16.6 percent year-on-year to 68,389 units.

Total vehicle sales in Japan reached 18,154 units, a 22.2 percent rise over the October 2005 total, marking the eighteenth consecutive month of year-on-year sales gains. Registered vehicles charted sales of 5,285 units, 89.9 percent of the year-ago figure. Mini-car sales continued year-on-year growth increasing to 12,869 units, 143.4 percent of the total for October 2005. Sales of the new eK Wagon series and i models contributed to this growth. Total sales for passenger cars rose 41.6 percent year-on-year to 13,895 units, while commercial vehicle sales dropped to 4,259 units, 15.5 percent less than the same period last year.

Overseas production totaled 39,698 units, 70.0 percent of the year-ago figure. European production increased 32.6 percent to 5,670 units of last year's total due to good sales of Colt series. North American production came in at 9,425 units, a 6.9 percent rise year-on-year due to an increase in production of the Galant export model. Asian production totaled 21, 211 units, a 45.0 percent decline from October 2005's levels, representing continued weakness in Asian markets such as Indonesia, Malaysia and Taiwan, where economic conditions are not favorable for the industry.

Total exports from Japan declined to 27,411 units, 82.6 percent of the year-ago level. Exports to Europe decreased to 9, 488 units, 76.7 percent of the level seen last year due to lower sales of Pajero and Outlander (Airtrek) models which will undergo model changes this fiscal year. Exports to Asia came to 1,039 units, 31.0 percent of the last-year period due to unfavorable economic conditions in the countries mentioned above. Exports to North America rose to 3,514 units, 108. 7 percent of the October 2005 total due to healthy orders of the new Outlander model in the U.S. market.

Mazda launches Special Edition 'Demio' and 'Axela Sport' Models

2006-11-21T12:25:00.000+09:00

Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the launch in Japan of the Mazda Demio special edition "Style C" and "Style S" models and the Mazda Axela Sport special edition 23ST and 20ST models. All models come with exclusive body colors and interior design and go on sale nationwide at all Mazda, Mazda Anfini and Mazda Autozam dealers from today.

These special edition models make up part of the Stylish Tone Series, which are products with enhanced style and chic color tones. Mazda plans to extend this concept to certain other vehicles in the Mazda product range.The Demio (known as the Mazda2 in overseas markets) Style C is based on the Demio Casual, the core model in this product range. The stylish feel and comfort level have been strengthened by the exclusive Icy Blue Metallic body color, specially designed seat upholstery with light-blue highlights, a rear roof spoiler and an advanced keyless entry and starter system.

The Demio Style S builds on the features of the Demio Sport model through the special addition of the Cosmic Black Mica body color, custom designed seat upholstery and door trim with red highlights, and genuine leather trim for the steering wheel and shift knob. With these features, it achieves an even more exciting sporty feel.

When the Demio first appeared in 1996 it was hailed as a new type of compact car with eminent packaging and functionality. It underwent a full model change in 2002 and celebrated its tenth anniversary in August 2006. The Demio reached 1 million units of production in September 2006.

The Axela (known as the Mazda3 in overseas markets) Sport special edition 23ST and 20ST models are enhanced versions of the sporty 23S and 20S models. They are specially equipped with chrome outer door handles, 17-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels, exclusive genuine leather seats and leather door trim (black and sand-beige color combination), a Bose®. sound system and an adaptor for MP3 music players such as the iPod®. These advanced features improve the vehicle's quality and sporty look.

Manufacturer's suggested retail prices (including consumption tax):
Demio Style C: 1,190,000 - 1,463,000 yen
Demio Style S: 1,560,000 - 1,649,250 yen
Axela Sport 23ST: 2,330,000 yen
Axela Sport 20ST: 2,260,000 yen

Main features of the Demio Style C
Base model
Casual (version equipped with a 1.3-liter DOHC engine with either FWD/4-speed AT, FWD/5-speed MT or e-4WD/4-speed AT)

Special equipment
- Custom-designed seat upholstery
The seat fabric has light-blue highlights (standard model seats are plain medium grey).
- Rear roof spoiler
- Advanced keyless entry and starter system
- Dark tinted glass (for rear seat door windows, rear three-quarter windows and rear window)
- Water repellent coating (for windshield glass, front door glass and door mirrors)

Body colors
Exclusive to the Style C is the light-blue, Icy Blue Metallic paint. The existing range of seven colors, which includes Snowflake White Pearl Mica, Winning Blue Metallic and Brilliant Black, is also available, making a total of eight color choices.

Main features of the Demio Style S Base model
Sport (1.5-liter engine with FWD/5-speed MT or FWD/4-speed 'Activematic' AT)

Special equipment
- Custom designed seat upholstery and door trim
The seat fabric has red highlights (standard model uses plain black fabric)
- Genuine leather-wrapped steering wheel (black)
- Genuine leather-wrapped shift knob
- Advanced keyless entry and starter system
- Autolight system and rain sensing wipers (front)
- Immobilizer
- 6 speakers (2 speakers are standard)
- 'Audioless' specification center panel (i.e. with free space for a 2-DIN size audio system without a factory or dealer-installed audio system)

Body colors
In addition to the exclusive Cosmic Black Mica, a choice of six colors from the existing range is available, including Snowflake White Pearl Mica, Winning Blue Metallic and Brilliant Black. The complete range consists of seven colors.

Main features of the special edition Axela Sport 23ST and 20ST models

Base model
Axela Sport 23S (2.3-liter DOHC engine with FWD/5-speed 'Activematic' AT) and Axela Sport 20S (2.0-liter DOHC engine with FWD/5-speed 'Activematic' AT)

Special equipment
- Chrome outer door handles
- 17-inch chrome-finished alloy wheels
- Exclusive genuine leather seats and door trim
Black and sand-beige genuine leather seats and sand-beige synthetic leather door trim
- BOSE® sound system - amplifier and seven speakers with an MP3-capable CD player
Five-channel digital high-power amplifier and seven-speaker system including a 5.25-inch subwoofer (box type)
- Input terminal and 12 Volt electric power supply
The input terminal supports portable audio devices such as iPods. The adaptor is installed inside the center console.

Body colors

There are two body colors available; the new and exclusive Moist Silver Metallic, and Black Mica from the existing color lineup.

Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Prices

Demio *Price of the models in the photos above
Model Engine Drive Transmission Price
With Tax Without Tax
Style C 1.3-liter DOHC FWD 5-speed manual 1,190,000 1,133,334
4-speed automatic 1,268,750* 1,208,334
e-4WD 4-speed automatic 1,463,000 1,393,334
Style S 1.5-liter DOHC FWD 5-speed manual 1,560,000 1,485,715
4-speed automatic
(Activematic) 1,649,250* 1,570,715

- If the special body color Snow Flake White Pearl Mica is selected, the price increases by 31,500 yen (with tax).
- A separate recycling fee of 11,160 yen is necessary in addition to the manufacturer's suggested retail prices listed above.

Axela Sport *Price of the models in the photos above
Model Engine Drive Transmission Price
With Tax Without Tax
20ST 2.0-liter DOHC FWD 5-speed automatic
(Activematic) 2,260,000 2,152,381
23ST 2.3-liter DOHC 2,330,000* 2,219,048

Nissan Introduces All-New Skyline

2006-11-20T12:35:00.000+09:00

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today introduced the 12th generation Skyline, featuring all-new exterior and interior designs, the next generation FR-L platform and newly developed VQ35HR V6 engine. The new Skyline was developed under the concept, “attraction, sophistication and high-performance driving.”The new Skyline retails from 2,793,000 yen (MRSP) to 3,801,000 yen nationwide. Nissan’s forecast for the Skyline is 1,000 units per month.

“Dynamic rhythm” and sporty lines
The exterior design of the all-new Skyline expresses “dynamic rhythm” with its fluid lines, combined with a sleek aerodynamic and sporty-look.

The overall height is 20mm lower, overall width is 20mm wider than its V35 predecessor.

Its longer nose, sharply raked A-pillar, forward-leaning roofline, and fluidly curving character line which wrap around the rear wheel arches, express “dynamic motion” and enhance the rear wheel drive proportions.

The front hood features a sculptured new front-grille and headlamps. The integrated spoiler for the rear trunk blends with new L-shaped tail lamps, while the double exhaust tips adds to the purposeful high-performance image.

The Skyline’s sport models feature exclusive front bumper and body-side sill spoiler.

The new line-up comes in a choice of seven body colors including three all-new colors – Stratosphere Blue, Blade Silver and Crimson Red.

Interior comfort and craftsmanship
The all-new interior incorporates a cockpit feel with the front dashboard and center stack designed to be driver-centric.

The aluminum trim finish was inspired by the texture of traditional Japanese rice paper called “Washi”, whereas the optional wood trim is made of bubinga, a high-quality wood commonly used in high-end furniture pieces.

The leather-wrapped steering wheel and gear-shifter are hand-stitched for refined craftsmanship quality. All the switches and dials are ergonomically designed for smooth easy-to-reach operation and offer a refined tactile feel.

The seats are 27mm lower for a more sporty drive position. A greater margin for adjustment is offered on the seats as well as the steering wheel. The front seat offers firm support and comfort to ensure tireless driving in either day-to-day traffic or long-distance touring. Headroom and rear-seat space are best-in-class.

The Skyline range is available in a choice of five different interior color combinations to suit individual tastes.

Superior performance and driving pleasure
The next generation FR-L platform has been engineered to deliver a fun and exhilarating driving experience without having to compromise on a smooth and comfortable ride. In the development of the new Skyline, Nissan’s engineers focused on three key areas – accommodating increased engine power, superior balance of driving performance and comfort, as well as safety and environmental friendliness.

The Skyline is powered by the newly developed VQ35HR and VQ25HR V6 engines. The 3.5L version generates 315 horsepowers and 36.5kgm of torque and is capable of revving up to 7500rpm, while the 2.5L generates 225 horsepowers and 26.8 kgm of torque. The powerplant is matched to a five-speed automatic transmission with adaptive shift control, allowing the driver to be in full control of the power generated by the new engine. A new DS mode allows for more spirited driving by optimizing gear selection for various driving conditions. The gearbox is also equipped with the synchro-rev control system.

The sportier SP and P series feature a steering-column mounted shift paddles that allow the driver to operate in manual-shift mode. The paddles are made of solid, light-weight magnesium.

In striving for the perfect balance in vehicle dynamics, the Skyline responds to the driver’s command under various driving conditions – agility and comfort for city driving, stability and smoothness for open highways, and precision handling for sinuous mountain road conditions.

The new body is more rigid and transmits less NVH (noise, vibration and harshness), despite no incremental weight compared to its V35 predecessor. Nissan’s advanced technology allows precise control of the vibration characteristics of the suspensions, mounts and body, in order to minimize the effects of road vibrations.

Unique to the Skyline is the world’s first four-wheel active steering system, which adjusts the steering angles of the front and rear wheels in accordance with driving speeds and steering operation, allowing for greater control at low and medium speeds, and smooth effortless cruising at higher speeds. It is optional on SP and S series.

The new Skyline is equipped with larger 18-inch (sports models) and 17-inch (standard models) aluminum wheels. In the sport models, it is equipped with different sized front (225/50R) and rear (245/45R) tires for added performance.

High safety and environmental standards
The body has been designed to deliver a high level of compatibility; it protects the occupants with a reinforced cabin while minimizing crash impact to other cars. Pedestrian protection is designed to lessen the impact to the head and lower limb.

The Skyline is a certified SU-LEV (super low emission vehicle), with a significant 75% reduction in NOx (Nitrogen Oxide) and NMHC (Non-Methane Hydrocarbon) emissions compared to 2005 emission regulations of Japan.

" i " takes "Most Advanced Technology" Special Achievement Award in the Car of the Year Japan 2006-2007

2006-11-20T12:20:00.000+09:00

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today announced that the "i" mini passenger car has won the "Most Advanced Technology" Special Achievement Award, voted for by the Car of the Year Japan's Executive Committee*1. The "i" is the first mini passenger car to be awarded this honor. Confirming Mitsubishi Motors' heritage in the Car of The Year awards, this further recognition for "i" comes 10 years after "Galant/Legnum" was declared Car of the Year Japan 1996-1997.

Ushering in a new age for the minicar, "i" was developed as an innovative Premium Small Car that successfully overcomes the tradeoffs traditionally associated with the category: design versus comfortable interior space; comfortable interior space versus impact safety. Mitsubishi Motors has conquered these challenges by developing a new and leading edge "rear-midship layout" that mounts the engine forward of the rear axle line and permits three new "innovations" within the category's dimensional constraints: futuristic and uptown styling; agile handling and a comfortable ride; and excellent multidirectional impact safety. This highly original exterior and interior design, which is delivered by the ingenious platform, brought the award.

*1: Outline of Car of the Year Japan 2006-2007
Candidates: All passenger cars released or launched in Japan as a new model between November 1, 2005 and October 31, 2006.
Prizes: Car of the Year Japan / Import Car of the Year Special Achievement Awards ("Most Fun", "Best Value", "Most Advanced Technology")
COTY Jury: 63 jurors

Mitsubishi Motors lineup at 2006 Beijing Motor Show

2006-11-18T12:20:00.000+09:00

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today debuts the Outlander EX*1 on-road Sport Utility Vehicle at the Beijing Motor Show 2006. The show is being held from November 18 (November 21 for the general public). Also on display are the Lancer Evolution IX high-performance 4WD sports sedan that went on sale in China this October, the Mitsubishi Concept-Sportback that shows how a next-generation sportback concept car may look, and the Eclipse Spyder that is currently selling very strongly in the North American Market. In total, the company is showing 7 vehicles.
*1: Outlander in Japan

1. Outlander EX
Outlander, very favorably received in the Japanese and North American markets, is going to go on sale in China in January 2007 with the name Outlander EX.
Outlander EX is the same as the North American market Outlander and will be powered by a new high performance, low emission, low fuel consumption 3-liter V6 MIVEC*2 engine, coupled to a 6-speed automatic transmission to deliver outstanding acceleration and high-speed cruising performance. Fully embracing Mitsubishi Motors' All Wheel Control (AWC) concept, Outlander EX uses Mitsubishi's electronically controlled 4WD system that continuously distributes front/rear wheel drive torque in an optimal way according to conditions.
Outlander sits on a next-generation platform that features enhanced stiffness and crashworthiness, together with an aluminum roof panel that lowers the center of gravity; this reduces roll inertia, improves steering response and handling, and reduces body roll and stagger without impacting ride quality. Outlander EX boasts a high level of specification, including a split tailgate that enhances convenience and loading ease. A spare tire is fitted as standard for the Chinese market.
*2 MIVEC : Mitsubishi Innovative Valve timing Electronic Control system

2. Lancer Evolution IX
Lancer Evolution IX, the iconic high performance sport sedan that went on sale in China this October, employs a turbocharged, intercooled 2-liter engine with electronically controlled 4WD system that results in extremely high levels of acceleration, grip and braking. The launch in China follows very successful launches in Japan, North America, and Europe.

3. Mitsubishi Concept-Sportback
Mitsubishi Concept-Sportback shows how a next-generation sportback car may look and was showcased at 2005 Frankfurt International Motor Show. The direction Mitsubishi Motors' design that is set to take in the near future is readily apparent in the concept's exterior. Mitsubishi Motor R&D Europe GmbH (MRDE), located in Germany, created an arresting form that features sporty lines embodying Mitsubishi Motors' sporty DNA, a front visage that gives prominence to the 3-diamond logo, and proportions that give full expression to the vehicle concept.

4. Eclipse Spyder
Eclipse Spyder, sold in the North America Market and produced by Mitsubishi Motors North America Inc. (MMNA), is the convertible version of the fourth-generation Eclipse and the third generation of Eclipse Spyder. This sports car has been very favorably received in North America Market.

Toyota Begins Tundra Production at Texas Plant

2006-11-18T00:55:00.000+09:00

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced that it held a line-off ceremony for the Toyota Tundra full-size pickup truck today (November 17, U.S. Central Standard Time) at Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc. (TMMTX).

Texas Governor Rick Perry, United States Ambassador to Japan John Thomas Schieffer and San Antonio Mayor Phil Hardberger, as well as TMC Honorary Chairman Shoichiro Toyoda, TMC President Katsuaki Watanabe, TMMTX President Hidehiko Tajima and TMMTX Vice President Don Jackson, among others, attended the event.

Watanabe said, "Here in Texas, we have assembled a great team of people, a great plant and a great truck. Along with great people, this is one of the most-advanced automotive plants on the earth. It has the latest in technology and is using the best production and environmental techniques learned from more than 60 plants that we operate around the world."

Tajima said, "Today is the culmination of nearly four years of hard work and dedication by all of the members of Team Texas. It would have been impossible to reach this day without the strong partnership of our team members, construction partners, suppliers and all those in the government and community. We now begin the next stage in what will be a very long and very successful partnership with San Antonio, Bexar County and Texas."

TMMTX was established in March 2003 as the sixth assembly plant of Toyota in North America, with an investment capital of approximately 1.28 billion dollars and an annual production capacity of 200,000 vehicles.

Toyota production capacity in North America in 2008 is expected to reach 2.02 million vehicles (current capacity is 1.75 million vehicles) annually as a result of the increased production capacity at the North American production site of Fuji Heavy Industries Ltd. (Subaru of Indiana Automotive, Inc.) to 100,000 vehicles per year of the Camry; production of which will be outsourced by Toyota beginning in 2007; an increase in production capacity in 2007 by 20,000 vehicles per year at Toyota Motor Manufacturing de Baja California, Mexico; and the additional production capacity of 150,000 vehicles per year at the No. 2 Plant of Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Canada, Inc., where production is expected to begin in 2008.

Outline of TMMTX
Company name : Toyota Motor Manufacturing, Texas, Inc.
Location : San Antonio, Texas (U.S.A)
President : Hidehiko Tajima
Establishment : March 2003
Start of Production : November 2006
Product lineup : Tundra pickup truck
Production capacity : 200,000 units/year
Land area : Approx. 2,000 acres (approx. 810ha)
Capitalization : Approx. 1.28 billion U.S. dollars
Number of employees : Approx. 2,000

New Corolla, Lexus RX400h to Highlight Toyota's Largest Beijing Motor Show Display

2006-11-17T12:50:00.000+09:00

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today that it would display a total of 28 production and concept vehicles at the Toyota and Lexus booths at the 2006 Beijing International Automotive Industry Exhibition (Auto China 2006) to be held at the China International Exhibition Center (Beijing, China) from November 18 to 27. The display would be the largest Toyota/Lexus display ever at the Beijing event.

Auto China 2006 will host the first-ever exhibit of the new Corolla outside Japan, as well as first-ever exhibit in China of the Lexus RX400h (known as the Harrier Hybrid in Japan). The show will also mark a change in the Chinese rendering of the name Corolla from the previous literal translation, "Hua Guan", to the new transliteration, "Ka Luo La".

The TOYOTA i-swing—which proposes a new form of personal mobility that advances driver-vehicle unity—and the Fine-T—which offers the environmental performance of a fuel cell hybrid system and ease of movement through four-wheel independent drive control and a large steering angle—represent, as Toyota's two concept vehicles at the show, Toyota's vision of automotive evolution.

The display will include an environmental and safety section featuring cutaway models of the RX400h and Prius and a post-collision-test Reiz (known as the Mark X in Japan). Touch-sensitive screens will offer explanation of Toyota's GOA (Global Outstanding Assessment) collision-safety body structure and introduce Toyota's other advanced environmental and safety technologies.

Daihatsu to Exhibit Vehicles at Auto China 2006

2006-11-17T12:45:00.000+09:00

DAIHATSU MOTOR CO., LTD. (Daihatsu) announced that it will exhibit the D-01 prototype, which is scheduled to go on sale in mid-2007, and other vehicles at Auto China 2006 (Beijing Motor Show). The motor show will be held from November 18 to 27 at the China International Exhibition Center and the National Agricultural Exhibition Center.Daihatsu concluded a technology licensing agreement with China FAW Group Corporation in October of last year and will start production of a new compact multi-purpose passenger car in Jilin City, Jilin Province in mid-2007. Full-scale sales of the new vehicle will be conducted in partnership with China FAW Group under the Daihatsu brand name.

In addition to the D-01 new compact multi-purpose passenger car prototype, the HVS hybrid sports car, the Be-go SUV, and the Copen roadster will also be on display at the motor show.

Daihatsu will emphasize the appeal and fun of compact cars as well as their environmental performance and advanced technologies.

D-01 Prototype
The D-01 is a new compact multi-purpose passenger car designed to meet the diversifying needs and expectations towards compact vehicles of users in the Chinese market in a wide range of applications from day-to-day use to leisure. Daihatsu will display two versions of the D-01 at the Beijing Motor Show—a unique cross-over version (photo) and a stylish sporty version.

Nissan launches all-new Livina Geniss at Auto China 2006

2006-11-17T12:36:00.000+09:00

Nissan Motor Company today announced the launch of an all-new vehicle – the Livina Geniss – for Chinese consumers. First unveiled at the Guangzhou motorshow in July, the Livina Geniss is the first model from Nissan’s new family of global cars that will continue to drive Nissan’s growth strategy into the Chinese market. Levina Geniss will be manufactured at Huadu plant and will go on sale in November 2006.

“Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company strives to provide top quality products and services to our customers in China,” said Mr. Ren Yong, Vice President of Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company, Nissan’s local joint venture partner. “The fact that we chose to debut the Livina Geniss in China ahead of other markets demonstrates Nissan’s commitment and dedication to consumers in China. At a highly competitive and attractive retail price, we are confident that the Livina Geniss will gain popularity among our Chinese consumers.”

The Livina Geniss has been developed to meet the growing sophistication and lifestyle needs of Chinese consumers. Featuring a stylish exterior design, superior quality interior and roomy space with flexible seating arrangement, the Livina Geniss is an ideal choice for the urban family in search of a dynamic yet functional vehicle.

Bringing another “first” to Auto China 2006, Nissan will showcase the eye-catching Pivo electric car concept at its stand. First unveiled at the Tokyo Motorshow last year, the Pivo operates on a drive-by-wire system that enables the car’s cabin to pivot 360 degrees, effectively eliminating the need to reverse. Powered by Nissan’s compact, high-performance lithium-ion battery and its unique super motor, the Pivo creates zero emissions, and is an ideal reflection of Nissan’s commitment to develop environment-friendly technologies and to provide vehicles with innovative technologies that enrich people’s lives.

In addition, Nissan Motor Company and Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Company will jointly showcase a line-up of models catering to different customer segments including the iconic Nissan 350Z; the Fuga luxury sporty sedan, and the Quest luxury MPV. Domestically produced models such as the Sylphy, Teana, Tiida sedan and hatchback, and the Paladin SUV will also be on display at the 1,260 square meter large Nissan booth.

“The eleven models exhibited at Auto China 2006 demonstrate the different ways innovation and advanced technology can be applied to our wide range of vehicles,” said Mr. Katsumi Nakamura, President of Dongfeng Motor Co., Ltd. “It is also reflective of Nissan’s consistent drive to provide our customers with the kind of product that combines fun-to-drive pleasure with the sophistication of modern and practical interiors. At Nissan, we are dedicated to producing superior cars that not only enrich the lives of our customers but provide them lasting value,” added Nakamura.

Nissan R383 Hits the Road for the first time

2006-11-16T12:35:00.001+09:00

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (Carlos Ghosn, CEO; Head Office located in Ginza, Tokyo) and Nissan Motorsports International Co., Ltd. (Yuuichi Sanada, President; Head Office located in Minami Ooi, Tokyo) held the shakedown of the Nissan R383 at Tsukuba Circuit in Ibaraki prefecture. This car was built and developed for the 3rd Japan Grand Prix, scheduled to be held in 1970, but never saw the light of day as the race was cancelled before the car was completed.

For the past three years, Nissan/NISMO has worked on the restoration of historic motorsport assets in order to preserve them in an operable state for future generations. The R383 is the last of the prototype R380 series racing cars to be restored following the 1969-built Nissan R382 in 2004, and the 1967-built RS80-II and 1968-built R381 in 2005.

The car is scheduled to be driven on the track at Fuji Speedway at the NISMO Festival on Sunday, December 3rd as part of the fan entertainment event.

* Japan Grand Prix: A sportscar race series held from 1963 to 1969.

After victory in the 1969 Japan Grand Prix with the R382, Nissan started the development of the new car for the 1970 Japan Grand Prix. This was the acclaimed 700-horsepower R383. However, the 1970 Japan Grand Prix was cancelled and the R383 left in the factory without demonstrating its monstrous potential. The following specification is based on the replicated model owned by Nissan Motors.

[Technical Specifications]
Length/Width/Height: 4,115/2,030/1,088mm
Wheelbase: 2,400mm
Track (Front/Rear): 1,280mm/1,260mm
Weight: 740kg
Engine GRX-3(V12 DOHC)
Displacement: 5,954cc
Power output:: Over 515kW(700ps)
Max. torque: Over 647N-m(66kgm)
Gear box: Hewland 5-speed
Brakes: Outboard discs

NISSAN DEVELOPS ALL-NEW CONSULT-III DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM

2006-11-16T12:35:00.000+09:00

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., has developed the “CONSULT-III,” (*1) a handheld diagnostic tester for various in-vehicle electronic systems, with the aim of realizing swift and accurate diagnosis and repairs at Nissan dealerships worldwide. The diagnostic tester will be introduced at Nissan dealerships in Japan and other global markets. The roll-out of the new system will coincide with the introduction of the Skyline sedan in Japan this month, and global markets where the Infiniti G35 will be sold, followed progressively by all other remaining markets as new generation products are introduced.

The accurate and speedy diagnosis of a vehicle’s problem has become increasingly complicated as more sophisticated electronic hardware is fitted in vehicles, combined with a significant increase in the number of computers connected to the Controller Area Network (CAN). In the past five-year period, the number of computer systems fitted in today’s vehicles has doubled from only approximately eight in 2001. The CONSULT-III is specifically designed to address these complex and advanced in-vehicle electronic devices, enabling accurate diagnosis and repairs and shortening waiting times for customers.

The basic diagnostic system is composed of the main unit i.e. an extra-durable and rugged laptop PC, a wireless vehicle communication interface and wireless measurement interface; the laptop PC and each interface is connected via Bluetooth technology. Through a wireless LAN, this diagnostic system can be connected to the Nissan network in Japan, enabling the dealerships to retrieve information from various sources and display service technology data on the laptop PC.

Features of CONSULT-III

●Swift diagnosis and swift repairs through automated operations
The selection of CAN type as well as the identification of malfunction locations are completely automated, allowing CAN diagnosis to be done 17 times faster than previous method where the diagnostics system needed to be supplemented by the service manuals. Repairs involving reprogramming of the in-vehicle computer can be completed 1.5 to 2.5 times faster with the new system.

●Automated Self-Diagnostics
The system is able to perform accurate diagnosis without having to rely on the diagnostic skills of technical staff at the dealership.

●Increased efficiency in operations based on wireless technology
With wireless vehicle communication interface, it is possible to check the condition of the vehicle from either (*2) inside or outside the vehicle. At dealerships in Japan, it is possible to access the Nissan network to retrieve both the maintenance technology data related to the diagnosis results and spot adequate information on service manual. The dealerships are also able to access their service database and refer to the vehicle’s maintenance history on the laptop PC.

●Capable of handling multiple complex defects
The diagnostics tool is equipped with various functions including simultaneous self-diagnosis of an entire system, simultaneous data monitor for multiple systems, data recorder, and oscilloscope capability.

●Enhanced data management with improved laptop PC.
New features such as adoption of color-screen and large-screen monitor allow viewing of large amounts of information altogether for enhanced data management.

●Map data update function for hard-disk navigation system
Through high-speed data update system, it is possible to update map data in approximately 20 minutes with the new CARWINGS navigation system (hard-disk) equipped in the all-new Skyline and other future products.

(*1) CONSULT: Computerized On-Board System Universal Tester. CONSULT introduced in 1989, CONSULT-II in 1999. CONSULT-III is third generation model.

(*2) Communicable distance: approximately 5m radius

Mazda to Reveal All-New Design Concept at 2007 Los Angeles International Auto Show

2006-11-15T12:25:00.000+09:00

Mazda Motor Corporation today announced the global reveal of an all-new concept car, Mazda Nagare (pronounced na-gah-reh), at the Greater Los Angeles International Auto Show, during a press conference at 4:05 PM on November 29, 2006. Following on the heels of three very successful and exploratory Mazda design concepts – Sassou, Senku, and Kabura – from last year's show season, Nagare is the first indication of Mazda's future design direction. According to Mazda's newly appointed global design director, Laurens van den Acker, Nagare sums up the future of Mazda design in one deceptively simple word -Flow. “Nagare is a celebration of proportions and surface language that will evolve into subsequent designs planned for presentation at future international auto shows. Nagare examines light and shadow, and begins to reveal the global design cues for the next generation of Mazda vehicles.”

Franz Von Holzhausen, Director of Design for Mazda North American Operations, who headed the Nagare design team in Irvine, Calif., describes Nagare as an evolving expression of Zoom-Zoom: “Inspired by the movement of nature's elements, our designers have captured motion, energy and lightness, translating into a beautiful language of lines and forms that are powerful yet effortless, provocative yet strikingly seductive.”

And there's much more to come, too, as Mazda continues to evolve flow through future models. For now, Mazda enthusiasts can experience Nagare as an indication of Mazda Design's confident step in a new direction.

Other vehicles on display at the Show include the recently launched Mazda CX-7 crossover SUV, the Mazda CX-9 three-row, seven-passenger SUV, which arrives in North American Mazda dealerships in early 2007, and the brilliantly designed Mazda MX-5 Miata Power Retractable Hard Top.

"i" takes RJC Car of the Year 2007

2006-11-15T12:20:00.000+09:00

Mitsubishi Motors Corporation today announced that the "i" has been awarded the "RJC Car of the Year 2007" by the Automotive Researchers' & Journalists' Conference of Japan (RJC) *1. The "i" is the first Mitsubishi car to win RJC Car of the Year.
Ushering in a new age for the minicar, "i" was developed as an innovative Premium Small Car that successfully overcomes the tradeoffs traditionally associated with the category: design versus comfortable interior space; comfortable interior space versus impact safety. Mitsubishi Motors has conquered these challenges by developing a new and leading edge "rear-midship layout" that mounts the engine forward of the rear axle line and permits three new "innovations" within the category's dimensional constraints: futuristic and uptown styling; agile handling and a comfortable ride; and excellent multidirectional impact safety. This highly original exterior and interior design, which is delivered by the ingenious platform, brought the grand prize in the award.

MMC president Osamu Masuko made the following remarks: "We are honored to receive this significant award today with our "i" minicar that has found favor with customers for its outstanding and futuristic design. We will keep working on the development of customer-oriented models with this unique "rear-midship layout" platform that brings new levels of ride comfort and impact safety together with innovative design."

*1: In this year's RJC Car of the Year, 62 members of a selection committee considered 25 domestic vehicles whose production plan is more than five thousand vehicles per year, launched between November 1, 2005 and October 31, 2006.

Rd.8 Propecia Rally New Zealand

2006-11-15T12:15:00.000+09:00

It seems hard to believe that another season of the Production Car World Rally Championship is set to draw to a close this coming weekend as Rally New Zealand gets underway in a new location, the town of Hamilton, 120 kilometres south from Auckland.
One of the most popular and scenic rallies on the entire calendar, Rally New Zealand is always a major draw for fans, with the stages typically packed on all three days of the event.

This year the Service Park and Rally Headquarters are in the Mystery Creek Events Centre, as is the Super Special spectator stage, being run on Friday and Saturday nights.

Though centered in a completely different location, this year's rally still shares four of the seventeen special stages used in 2005. Favourites among rally fans and drivers, Saturday's Te Akau South and North tests are blindingly quick and very demanding. Sunday's stages feature the postcard-like Whaanga Coast test, as well as Raglan.

With the event taking place at the opposite side of the calendar to last year, different weather conditions can be expected. Long stages in the cooler spring temperatures mean that tyre choice will play a pivotal role this weekend as crews negotiate the high-speed gravel roads. It has been very wet and the weather seasonally very unpredictable so weather choice is a bit of a guess here.

Pre-event testThe Monday prior to PCWRC events is the traditional day for competitors to get acclimatized to the local conditions with the Pre-event test. All eight rounds of the PCWRC feature this one-day event, and it has become a hugely popular with the IMPREZA crews.

Most of the SUBARU runners contesting PCWRC in Rally New Zealand took part, with everybody reporting progress and no dramas throughout the day. Championship leader Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah was happy both with his progress and with the pace of his spec C IMPREZA on the roads north of Hamilton. Toshi Arai attended the test after lunch, as did Round 7 winner Jari-Matti Latvala. Aki Teiskonen will take the start on Friday, though damage to his car means he won't be finishing the event this year.

Former New Zealand Rally Champion Chris West was also at the test. He had a few things to resolve on the car early on, which he succeeded in doing. However, Richard Mason, Newly crowned as NZ champion, was unable to attend as his car was having a new engine fitted.

Sergei Uspenskiy, after taking his strongest result three weeks ago in Australia, is being replaced with Mr. Drosinskiy for this, the final round of the year.

George Donaldson - STI Group N Project General Manager:
"Our test featured ideal test roads for setting up a rally car for the New Zealand Rally. Whilst none of the roads are identical to any of the stages specifically, the combination of camber, speed sections and very twisty sections is the ideal set up for a car to give the required performance on this rally. This has been used by the world champions for many, many years."

"Basically, I've never seen a test that was so busy with car set-up changes. All the drivers were testing very intently, almost as if it was the first event of the season, like they all had a chance to win the championship. Possibly the two most relaxed drivers were in fact the two guys who could win the championship, Nasser Saleh Al Attiyah and Fumio Nutahara."

"I believe that we'll have drivers attacking this event in a very determined manner. It seems to me that 5 of 6 crews believe they can win PCWRC honours here in New Zealand. That's always a bit scary as it means we've got a whole load of drivers all thinking they're going to win, it usually ends up with a lot of retirements on the first day. But we hope that doesn't happen; I'll certainly be counselling the drivers accordingly.

"At the end of the day, all the SUBARU drivers reported a very productive day's testing. We wish them all the best of luck on this event and by Friday lunchtime we'll have an idea of our teams' performances. Hopefully this will be a top performance as desired, and that they carry that through to Sunday lunchtime."

Toyota Kicks Off 4-Day Safe-driving Event in Guangzhou, China

2006-11-14T12:50:00.000+09:00

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) marked the start today of a four-day Toyota Driver Communication (TDC) safe-driving event at the former Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport in Guangzhou, China.

More than 100 people attended the ceremony, including officials from the Guangzhou Public Security Bureau, representatives from Toyota and course participants. In his speech to the attendees, TMC Executive Vice President Mitsuo Kinoshita said, "TDC courses allow participants to really get behind the wheel for a first-hand experience. We look forward to the event increasing—through the use of the safety tips taught—awareness of the importance of safe driving."

The event is being held in conjunction with the Guangzhou Public Security Bureau. With the cooperation of the bureau's traffic police department, TDC instructors from Japan will teach various safe driving skills from November 14 to 17 to a total of approximately 200 people from taxi companies, driving schools and Toyota dealers as well as others for which road safety is an important theme. The curriculum includes instruction in defensive driving, initial vehicle inspections, proper driving position, blind-spot awareness and emergency braking on dry and slippery road surfaces. Participants are using a total of 12 Camry Guangzhou-built sedans.

In 2004, the Chinese Ministry of Public Security began taking comprehensive measures to prevent traffic accidents in major cities throughout China, with an emphasis on teaching drivers safe driving techniques. TDC courses are recognized as being very effective with respect to initiatives regarding safe driving instruction and education, which the Chinese Ministry of Public Security is strongly emphasizing. As such, a similar TDC event was held in Beijing in October 2005.

Based on the conviction that promoting safe driving is part of its social responsibilities, TMC has been holding TDC courses in Japan since 1987, and has actively taken numerous measures to reduce accidents. In April 2005, TMC opened the TOYOTA Safety Education Center "mobilitas", a safe-driving training facility at Fuji Speedway in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. In China, Toyota also seeks to be a good corporate citizen and plans to contribute to in the fields of environmental conservation, traffic safety, and personnel development.

Honda and Yachiyo Strengthen Capital Ties

2006-11-14T12:40:00.000+09:00

Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (hereafter referred to as “Honda”) announced that it would further strengthen its capital ties with Yachiyo Industry Co., Ltd. (hereafter referred to as “Yachiyo”) to further strengthen the mini-vehicle business and the global parts supply for Honda products. At the board of directors meeting held on November 14, 2006, Honda resolved to buy the shares of Yachiyo through a tender offer, aiming to acquire more than half of the issued shares of Yachiyo. The board of directors meeting of Yachiyo adopted a resolution to the effect that the company agrees with the tender offer from Honda which currently holds 34.5% of the issued shares of Yachiyo.

Demand for fuel-efficient vehicles is getting stronger worldwide, caused by soaring gasoline prices and growing concern over the environmental issues. In Japan, the mini-vehicle market has been growing steadily while the overall vehicle demand have remained sluggish, therefore, amplifying the importance that automobile manufacturers in Japan place on the mini-vehicle business. Under these circumstances, Honda has been working to enhance its product line-up, production capacity, and sales and service network.

Honda and Yachiyo have enjoyed a favorable working relationship since 1953 when Yachiyo was contracted to undertake painting process for Honda’s motorcycle parts. Today, Yachiyo is responsible for producing the majority of mini-vehicles sold by Honda. Yachiyo also provides stamped parts for automobiles, fuel tanks, sunroofs and service parts.

Honda believes this strengthening of capital ties with Yachiyo will enable the two companies to mutually complement each other’s resources (such as people, technology, facilities, and financial resources) which Honda intends to utilize to the maximum effect. By sharing a long-term strategy, Honda and Yachiyo intend to further improve quality and competitiveness to provide mini-vehicles with specifications and features best suited for customer requirements in a timely manner. As for the parts supply, both companies aim to strengthen parts supply system required for global business expansion of Honda and for a stronger competitiveness worldwide.

Yachiyo Industry Co., Ltd. – as of the end of March, 2006
Established: August, 1953

Capital: JPY 3,685.6 million

Investment ratio: Honda Motor Co., Ltd. 34.5%,
Eiichi Otake 20.6%,
Other 44.9%

Location: Saitama (Sayama)

Representative: Shigeru Otake, President & C.E.O.

Business activities: Manufacture and sale of motorcycle parts and automobile parts,
Manufacture of automobiles (Honda’s mini-vehicles: Life, Zest,Vamos, Hobio, Acty Truck, Acty Van)

Main operations: Japan: Saitama (Sayama), Shizuoka (Hamamatsu), Mie (Suzuka, Yokkaichi, Kameyama), Tochigi (Sakura)
Overseas: U.S.(Ohio, Alabama), Canada, Thailand, Vietnam, China (Zhongshan, Wuhan), etc.

Number of consolidated employees: 6,022

Consolidated net sales: JPY 282,777 million (fiscal year ended March, 2006)

Ordinary profit: JPY 7,190 million (fiscal year ended March, 2006)

Other: Began over-the-counter trading at Japan Securities Dealers’ Association (present JASDAQ stock exchange) in October, 1994.

NISSAN LCV UNIT TO BEAT VALUE-UP COMMITMENTS ONE YEAR AHEAD

2006-11-14T12:35:00.000+09:00

Following the recent announcement of the first half financial results for the fiscal year 2006, Nissan today reaffirmed that its light commercial vehicles (LCV) business unit plans to achieve its Nissan Value Up commitments – of reaching 434,000 units vehicle sales with 8% consolidated operating profit - one year ahead of forecast in this fiscal year 2006 ending March 31, 2007.

This bullish outlook is supported by the strong performance of the LCV unit this year across all global markets. For the six-month period from April through September 2006, global LCV sales have totalled 242,760 units, accounting for more than half the volume committed in the Value Up business plan initially set for the whole fiscal year 2007.

“The LCV business has been identified as one of the key breakthrough opportunities that will drive Nissan’s growth in terms of volume and profitability for the long-term. We are recognized as an important contributor to Nissan’s overall success as per the Nissan Value Up business plan,” said Andy Palmer, Corporate Vice President of Nissan’s LCV Business Unit.

“Our solid performance so far has been fuelled by improvements in our distribution network and leveraging on global efficiencies. With an aggressive product offensive next in the pipeline, we are confident of taking the LCV business onto a more accelerated growth period, in addition to expanding our product penetration into new emerging markets,” added Palmer.

For fiscal year 2006, Nissan will introduce a record three new LCV products. In the second half, it will launch a successor to AD-van in Japan, which is expected to consolidate Nissan’s stronghold in the domestic small van market. The AD Van follows the introduction of the Cabstar light duty truck in Europe last September.

One man's tribute to a rallying legend

2006-11-14T12:15:00.000+09:00

Talk to any Kiwi fan about rallying and it won't be long before the name Possum Bourne crops up. One of the most successful rally drivers in the southern hemisphere, Bourne's career was synonymous with Subaru from the early Eighties until his tragic death in a road accident in April 2003.

The man from the North Island drove a succession of RX Turbos, Legacys and Imprezas during his career and won three Asia-Pacific titles and seven Australian Rally Championships, all in Subarus.

As the Subaru World Rally Team prepares to visit New Zealand this weekend, one dedicated Kiwi is doing his own bit to ensure that Possum's memory lives on.

Darryl Jhinku, president and founder of the Subaru WRX STi Club in New Zealand, recently undertook a project to recreate Possum's favourite rally car, the Subaru WRC 1999. The car is more than a mock-up with some decals on it: it has been prepared as a competition car, and SWRT team chief Richard Taylor.

The Impreza made its track debut late last month at the Targa New Zealand event. Peggy Bourne, Possum's wife, made a guest appearance in the event and took the car out on a very wet track. Her presence in the car generated a lot of public interest, not least because she took the opportunity to take her two sons out on the track, one at a time. Taylor and Spencer Bourne were both left buzzing about the experience - perhaps there are two rally drivers in the making?

Darryl's car will be on display at next weekend's Rally New Zealand, which is based in Hamilton, 120kms south of Auckland.

Toyota Announces Winners of FY2006 Environmental Activities Grant Program

2006-11-13T12:50:00.000+09:00

TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today the 25 winners of the FY2006 Toyota Environmental Activities Grant Program, who will each receive a total of 170 million yen. In the seven years between FY2000 and FY2006, the cumulative total of grants given by the Toyota Environmental Activities Grant Program has amounted to approximately 1.24 billion yen, supporting 113 projects in 40 countries.

The Toyota Environmental Activities Grant Program was launched in commemoration of TMC's receipt of the Global 500 Award*, in 1999, from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Since then, the program has been supporting practical projects concerning environmental education and environmentally sound technology implemented by non-profit/non-governmental organizations and groups. During the application period between May and July 2006, 548 applications were received, with 424 coming in under the original category of "general grants" (with no restriction regarding project implementation site(s) and the limit of the grant amount) and 124 coming in under the category of "small-scale grants" (which focus on community-based grassroots activities with a limit on the grant amount).

The program's selection committee, consisting of a group of experts from Japan and elsewhere around the world and chaired by Dr. Keiko Nakamura, director general of the JT Biohistory Research Hall, deliberated intensely while selecting the 2006 grantees. The entries were judged on criteria such as: appropriateness of the projects; continuity and future development; clear demonstration of the necessity of funding; and the level of collaboration with local communities. The grant program will support the chosen projects for up to three years for "general grants", and up to one year for "small-scale grants".

* An award program (1987 to 2003) established by the UNEP to recognize individuals or organizations that contribute to greater environmental protection or improvement in terms of sustainable development. TMC received the award for being the world’s first to development and mass produce hybrid vehicles.

Website: http://www.toyota.co.jp/en/environment/ecogrant/ (English)
http://www.toyota.co.jp/jp/environment/ecogrant/ (Japanese)

Nissan Inaugurates Second Engine Facility at Iwaki Plant

2006-11-13T12:36:00.000+09:00

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., today held a ceremony to inaugurate the completion of its second engine facility at Iwaki Plant (Izumi-cho, Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture).

The second engine facility covers an area of 14,700m2 and is adjacent to the existing casting facility at Iwaki Plant. Construction begun in January 2005 with an investment of approximately 10 billion yen, and the facility was completed in December 2005.

The new production line for engine components was completed in July this year followed by production operations shortly after. The new production line employs state-of-the-art Nissan Integrated Manufacturing System (NIMS)*, which ensures operational efficiency, product quality, and flexible manufacturing to better respond to the production requirements for a variety of components.

The completion of the second engine facility will increase annual production capacity at the Iwaki Plant to 560,000 units annually from the initial 396,000 units at the start of operations. The improved efficiencies with the additional second facility have also resulted in quicker response times.

The Iwaki Plant encompasses a total land area of 201,500m2, which includes 81,800m2 of building space (including the new facility), and currently employs 600 employees. The Iwaki Plant is one of the major engine plants in the country, on par with the Yokohama Plant, Nissan’s other plant dedicated to engine production.

Since start of production in 1994, the Iwaki Plant has built a total of 4.45 million units (as of October 2006).

The second engine facility will be responsible for cylinder block production for Nissan’s VQ-HR series of its new-generation V6 engines that were announced in August this year.

The VQ-HR series engine powers the all-new Infiniti G35 sedan, first launched in Korea in October, and to be introduced globally. It will also power the new model Skyline to be introduced to the Japanese market this November.

The Iwaki Plant was originally built in 1992 as a dedicated plant for the sole production of the newly developed VQ series V6 engine. It was designed under the concept of an “intelligent factory seeking co-existence with the environment, people and automobiles”.

The VQ engine produced at the plant first made its debut in the Maxima sedan introduced to the North American market in May 1994. The VQ series has a wide variety of variants, varying from 2.0 to 3.5 liter. It is one of Nissan’s flagship engines, fitted on 11 vehicle models, including the Fuga, Fairlady Z, Elgrand, Teana, Murano and Skyline (known as the Infiniti G35 in the US).

The engine has gained widespread global recognition, being the only engine in the world to have made Ward’s 10-best engines list for the past 12 consecutive years.

* Nissan Integrated Manufacturing System (NIMS): NIMS was developed as an evolution of the Nissan Standard Line, with the goal to introduce high quality new products at the global level in a shorter time frame.

Nissan and Local Groups Host National Wheelchair Marathon

2006-11-13T12:35:00.000+09:00

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Ginza, Chuo Ward, Tokyo; President: Carlos Ghosn) will host the National Wheelchair Marathon “NISSAN Cup Oppama Championship 2006” for three days from December 1 through December 3, 2006 together with various local organizations led by the Oppama Tourism Association (Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture).

The event, a wheelchair marathon with the aim of achieving local revitalization as well as promoting sports among the disabled, will be held in the town of Oppama in the city of Yokosuka, Kanagawa prefecture.

Around 200 athletes from all over Japan, including top-level performers, are expected to join the three-day meet. The course for the road race, which would utilize the Nissan Oppama Plant premises as well as surrounding public roads, is a certified course by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations.

Since the marathon was first held, it has been principally organized by the Nissan Oppama Plant in conjunction with various local organizations as a private sector-led endeavor. With around 800 Nissan employees along with local volunteers acting as course marshals and manning water stations, the merit of the event lies in the close ollaborative efforts between the corporate sector and local community.

This year marks the marathon’s seventh year. In addition to the road races, which consist of a full marathon and a half marathon, short-distance races and training sessions for beginners mainly for the juniors will be held.

Contributions are being collected from Nissan employees to commemorate the event and the collected funds will be donated to athletics organizations for the disabled to promote more sports activities for the disabled.

Please refer to the attached sheet for an outline itinerary of the National Wheelchair Marathon “NISSAN Cup Oppama Championship 2006.”

General Outline of the National Wheelchair Marathon “NISSAN Cup Oppama Championship 2006”

1. Organizational Structure
1) Event name “NISSAN Cup Oppama Championship 2006”
2) Hosts NISSAN Cup Event Organizing Committee

3) Co-host Kanto Athletics Association for the Disabled
4) Organizers Yokosuka City Athletics Association
5) Sponsors Kanagawa Prefecture/Yokosuka City/Yokosuka City Board of Education/
Yokosuka Chamber of Commerce and Industry/Yokosuka Hojinkai/ Japan Association of Athletics Federations for the Disabled
6) Special support Taura Police Department, Kanagawa Prefecture

2. Event Schedule
Day One December 1 (Friday) 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (Tentative)
·Track racing and coaching session for juniors (tentative) at the athletics field of Iriyamazu Park in Yokosuka.
Day Two December 2 (Saturday) 11:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. (Tentative)
Middle-distance races (2.5 km, 5 km and 10 km) for juniors and able-bodied people at the Nissan Oppama Plant test course.
Day Three December 3 (Sunday) 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. (Tentative)
· A full marathon (42.195 km), half marathon (21.097 km) and 10K road race to be held using public roads mainly along the Oppama shopping district in Yokosuka and roads inside the Nissan Oppama Plant premises.
* The race courses are all certified by the Japan Association of Athletics Federations. Finishing times will be recorded and accredited by the NISSAN Cup Event Organizing Committee.

3. Official Website
http://nissan-cup.com/

4. Other Information
Following the road races, a lunch social for volunteers and athletes will be held at the Nissan Oppama Plant.

SUBARU Rd.15 Propecia Rally New Zealand

2006-11-13T12:15:00.001+09:00

The Event
It’s all change as the Subaru World Rally Team heads back to the southern hemisphere for Rally New Zealand, which has a new date, route and base for 2006.

Only four of the 17 fast, flowing gravel stages are identical to those used on last year’s rally. Of the other tests, Pirongia West and Te Koraha were last used on the 1998 event and the last time Port Waikato was part of the route was back in 1982!

The new base is the Mystery Creek Events Centre near Hamilton, 120km south of Auckland on New Zealand’s North Island. The venue will play host to the rally headquarters, indoor service park, plus a Super Special which is part of the route on Friday and Saturday night.

It is spring in New Zealand, and the temperature is expected to be between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius – much cooler than last year’s event, which was held in April. The lower temperatures and long stages will put the onus on tyre choice.

The stunning gravel roads in New Zealand are like rollercoasters that carve through the lush green countryside of the North Island. The stages contain several off-camber corners, and the trick is to find the right set-up and get into a rhythm as soon as possible, in order to make the car ‘float’ from corner to corner.

After the ceremonial start on Thursday 16 November, the opening leg of the rally on Friday will take place in the Pirongia-Waitomo region to the west of Hamilton. The drivers will face two passes through the 43km Te Koraha stage, which is smooth, fast and flowing.

One of the highlights of leg two is the return of the dauntingly fast 32km Te Akau South and North stages, while leg three takes the crews onto more familiar roads near Raglan and includes the 29km Whaanga Coast test, which features some of the most spectacular scenery of any rally on the calendar and is a favourite with both drivers and spectators.

The event will cover a total of 358 competitive kilometres and the winning car will cross the finish ramp in Hamilton on Sunday at 15.00hrs (local time).

Entries
The Subaru World Rally Team will enter two cars in Rally New Zealand, one Impreza WRC2006 for Petter Solberg (co-driven by Phil Mills) and another for Chris Atkinson (co-driven by Glenn Macneall). New Zealand has been a happy hunting ground for Petter, who celebrates his 32nd birthday on the Saturday of this year’s rally. He has contested the event six times and won it in 2004. He also finished third in 2003 and 2005, and seventh in 2001. Chris has contested the rally twice and guided his Subaru Impreza WRC2005 into the points by finishing seventh last year.

Driver Quotes
Petter Solberg
“I’m very confident about New Zealand, because it has always been a good rally for us in the past. We were strong in Australia and hopefully can improve a little bit more on that. I’m really hoping to win again soon, but we have to take things step-by-step, and I know the team is working very hard, so we’ll just have to wait and see how things turn out. We’ll be using some stages that I haven’t driven before, but all the other drivers will be in the same situation, so it won’t be a problem. The pace notes will help us to get into a rhythm quite quickly. I’m sorry that it’s going to be a little bit colder in New Zealand now that the rally has moved from April to November!”

Chris Atkinson
“It’s going to be a tough rally with some long stages. We’ll be looking to continue the good pace we showed at the beginning of Rally Australia, although I’ll be looking forward to a bit of a change of fortune too. I’ve done Rally New Zealand twice before – last year I finished seventh with Subaru and the year before that I was driving a Group N Impreza – but we’re going to be using some new roads for this year. In terms of a result, we’d hope to be running in the top five and if we can do that, there’s always the chance of being in the hunt for a podium.”

The Car / The Challenge
Luis Moya, Subaru World Rally Team Sporting Director
“There are a few factors we have to take into consideration. This event is paired with Australia, so we’re using the same cars as the previous rally and we have to re-prepare them in New Zealand. Historically we’ve gone quite well in New Zealand – we won there with Richard Burns in 2001 and with Petter in 2004 – and we’ve got an excellent road position, which will play a part in the result. A lot of the stages haven’t been used for a long time, but they’re all classic New Zealand stages. Whaanga Coast is a phenomenal stage that could catch a few people out. It is corner after corner and could be where the rally is won and lost. It will be interesting to see our performance on the second passes through the stages, because that will be crucial to the result of the rally. The ambient temperature is low at the moment, so that’s going to make tyre selection tricky. Like Sardinia earlier this year, this rally is going to be all about having the right tyres on the car at the right time. Building on the performance advantages we found in Turkey and Australia is going to be key as well, and the target is to get both cars into the top five.”

Between the rallies
It’s been a relaxing time for the drivers since the previous WRC event, Rally Australia, in late October. After his second place finish in Perth, Petter Solberg traveled to Bali to holiday with his family. He was due to leave the Indonesian island today (Friday 10 November) to fly to Auckland and begin his preparations for Rally New Zealand. Chris Atkinson is based in Oxford these days, so he took full advantage of the gap between the each leg of the WRC’s Antipodean double-header to spend some time with his friends and family on Australia’s Gold Coast. On Monday Chris will fly from Brisbane to Auckland to link up with the Subaru team.

SUBARU Riding the waves before taking the stages

2006-11-13T12:15:00.000+09:00

On Monday 23 October Chris Atkinson and Glenn Macneall joined in the drills with Surf Life Saving WA on Scarborough Beach, Perth alongside the Spanish quartet of Dani Sordo, Marc Marti, Carlos del Barrio and Xavier Pons.

The drivers and co-drivers swapped helmets for beach gear as they ran along the sand performing the arduous exercises that life savers use in training for their rescue roles.

It was Atkinson versus Sordo in the final flag race, an activity that saw the two young drivers diving to claim the victory flag from Scarborough's golden sand. Sordo came off the best, showing that he was a natural on the beach, despite this being his first visit to Rally Australia.

Hoping for dominance on his home rally, Atkinson , flexed his muscles and took on his WRC rivals in a paddleboard competition. He showed he was a natural athlete in this exercise but knows that it will be more than just driver strength that will bring success for him on the event. "This time we have to be a realistic - we still have some work to do to get the whole package working together again," said Atkinson.

After drying off from the beach activities, Chris and Glenn will take to the Gloucester Park super special in Perth on Thursday October 26, before heading out to the country stages on Friday through to Sunday. The Gloucester Park super special will run on Friday and for the the final time ever on Saturday.

NISSAN RATED AMONG TOP 50 COMPANIES WORLDWIDE

2006-11-10T12:35:00.000+09:00

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., has been rated among the top 50 companies in the world in corporate social responsibility (CSR) reporting, according to a leading survey from Global Reporters. Five Japanese companies were named in the Top 50 where Nissan ranked 49th on the list. In addition, Nissan was the only other automotive company in the Top 50, aside from Ford Motor Company.

Global Reporters is a survey jointly conducted by business strategy consultancy and think-tank SustainAbility Ltd., the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), and Standard & Poor’s (S&P), which evaluates CSR reporting by companies worldwide according to globally accepted standards. The survey distinguishes the Top 50 companies that have established the best practices in CSR reporting. The report has been released biannually since 1994. This year’s “Global Reporters Survey 2006” was released on November 9th.

For the first time, Nissan has succeeded in making it to the Top 50 list in CSR reporting. This acknowledgement underscores Nissan’s strong commitment to corporate social responsibility, based on the principles of corporate governance, accountability and transparency, as reflected in its CSR reporting standards of practice.

Nissan released its first annual Environmental Report in 1998, followed by a more comprehensive Sustainability Report in 2004, which covers all of its CSR practices including environment matters. The 3rd edition of Nissan’s “Sustainability Report 2006” outlines the company’s newly defined CSR policy and nine key areas of focus - integrity, quality, safety, economic contribution, environment, value chain, brand, employees and philanthropy.

The Global Reporters’ methodology involves the survey of approximately 100 companies shortlisted from around the globe and evaluated by a team of renowned experts to determine the Top 50. The judging criteria include the clarity of a company’s sustainability strategy and an evaluation on the level of commitment and transparency of the CSR activities reported.

For information on how to download or order Nissan’s Sustainability Report, go to:
http://www.nissan-global.com/EN/COMPANY/CSR

Statement on Nissan Projects in India

2006-11-09T12:35:00.000+09:00

Nissan is committed to establishing a local manufacturing presence in India as part of our global growth strategy. Nissan is in active discussions with Renault and Mahindra concerning a new industrial partnership and will make a final decision within four months.

In consequence, we will not continue our discussions with Suzuki concerning a new industrial project in India. As previously announced, we continue to work with Suzuki concerning the OEM supply from India of a new small car for sale mainly in Europe.

Subaru sales move ahead around Australia

2006-11-08T12:15:00.000+09:00

Subaru sales of 2817 vehicles in October included an outstanding Queensland performance, with sales of 598 up 30.9 per cent over the same period last year.

Year-to-date Queensland sales of 5343 are 13.7 per cent up on 2005.

Spearheading Subaru’s success in the sunshine state was Impreza with 239 sales, up 55.2 per cent over the previous October.

Outback sales of 133 were a massive 155.8 per cent ahead, while 93 Liberty (Legacy) sales were 14.8 per cent up.

Other regions also showed impressive results.

In Tasmania, sales of 104 Subarus were 10.6 per cent up on the previous October.

Subaru commanded 26.5 per cent of the Compact SUV segment in Tasmania last month with sales of 47 Foresters up 62.1 per cent.

There was good news in Western Australia too, where 54 Liberty (Legacy) sales were 68.8 per cent up for the month.

Total WA Subaru sales of 2916 were 7.8 per cent ahead of the same period in 2005.

Isuzu and Toyota Sign Basic Agreement on Business Collaboration

2006-11-07T12:51:00.000+09:00

ISUZU MOTORS LIMITED (Isuzu) and TOYOTA MOTOR CORPORATION (TMC) announced today that they have signed a memorandum of understanding stating they will start studying the synergic effects of business collaboration. In the collaboration, the two companies seek to mutually utilize their management resources in the fields of research & development and production, and to supplement each other's technological development.

Although Isuzu and TMC will from now begin considering the specific form and range of their business collaboration, the main focuses are as follows:

1) Fields related to the research & development and production of small diesel engines
2) Joint research & development of emission-control technologies and emission-control devices for diesel engines
3) Environmental technologies, including basic engine and other technologies and technologies related to alternative fuels

To bring such efforts to materialization, Isuzu will assume the main role in 1) and 2) above, while TMC will assume the main role in 3).

Isuzu and TMC have come to view that, while they respect each other's independency in management, each side could prosper further by strengthening their business relationship, as global competition intensifies.

To enable this business collaboration to move forward smoothly, TMC decided today to purchase Isuzu shares as follows:

Contents of share purchase:
· Parties TMC will purchase from: Mitsubishi Corporation
ITOCHU Corporation
· Number of shares TMC will purchase: 100,000,000 shares (60 million from Mitsubishi Corporation; 40 million from ITOCHU Corporation)
· Ratio of shares to be owned by TMC: 5.9% (expected if all Isuzu Class I preferred stocks involved are converted to common stocks)
· Planned shares settlement day: November 10, 2006

Toyota Announces Semi-Annual Results

2006-11-07T12:50:00.000+09:00

At a meeting held on November 7, 2006, the Board of Directors of Toyota Motor Corporation ("TMC") resolved to establish a limit for acquiring its shares pursuant to the resolution made at the 102nd Ordinary General Shareholders' Meeting and we hereby inform you as follows.

1. Type of shares to be acquired Shares of common stock of TMC
2. Aggregate purchase price of shares Up to JPY 150,000,000,000
3. Aggregate number of shares to be acquired Up to 20,000,000 shares
4. Method of acquisition Purchase in the market
5. Acquisition period From November 9, 2006
to November 10, 2006

(Reference)
Matters resolved at the 102nd Ordinary General Shareholders' Meeting held on June 23, 2006
· Type of shares to be acquired Shares of common stock of TMC
· Aggregate number of shares to be acquired Up to 30,000,000 shares
· Aggregate purchase price of shares Up to JPY 200,000,000,000
Shares acquired as of November 7, 2006
· Aggregate number of shares acquired 0 shares
· Aggregate purchase price of shares JPY 0

FLODIN TAKES SWEDISH TITLE

2006-11-07T12:15:00.000+09:00

Talented young Swedish driver Patrik Flodin has claimed victory in the Swedish Championship. It was Patrik's first season in a SUBARU and he wasted no time in getting to grips with the SUBARU IMPREZA WRX STI spec C Gr.N 2006 built by Prodrive.

Patrik made the perfect start to the season when he was victorious in his first outing in the car at round one, Bergslags Rally. The early lead in the championship was extended when Patrik took Group N honours in the South Swedish Rally, and he clinched the title with a victory in the Ostgota Rally.
Patrik's rallying in the IMPREZA was not just confined to his domestic championship, taking the opportunity to broaden his experience he also participated in a number of high profile events throughout the course of the 2006 season. In February Patrik took part in Rally Norway, an event which will appear on the 2007 WRC calendar, the Impreza driver shone amongst the competition to finish first in Group N.

The following month the Monitor team (who sponsor Patrik) travelled to another WRC candidate round, Rally Portugal. The entry was restricted to just Group N cars, competition was tough with a number of experienced drivers in the field, including Markko Martin, Daniel Carlson, Janne Tuohino and Miguel Campos all driving Imprezas. The rally took place in demanding conditions with heavy rain throughout the weekend, despite this Patrik put in a mature performance to finish on the podium in third position.

Perhaps the most impressive performance of the season came in the Finnish round of the WRC, where Patrik had a titanic battle with fellow Prodrive SUBARU IMPREZA WRX STI spec C Gr.N 2006 driver Anton Alen. The two dominated Group N and exchanged fastest stage times throughout the weekend, in the end Anton Alen came out on top but the two drivers had shown not only their potential as stars of the future but also the performance of the IMPREZA, finishing above several World Rally Cars.

In addition to time in the driving seat, gaining a greater understanding of how the car works is key to increasing confidence levels in the car. In December 2005 Patrik spent a week at the Prodrive factory, where he worked alongside engineers and technicians to gain insight into the mechanics of the Group N IMPREZA.

Nissan Z Scores 3rd place podium finish -- SUPER GT 2006 Final Round --

2006-11-06T12:35:00.000+09:00

The 66 lap final round of the Super GT series was held on Sunday, November 5th at Fuji Speedway. The #24 WOODONE ADVAN KONDO Z with drivers Masataka Yanagida and Seiji Ara started from 4th, and with very aggressive driving, finished on the podium in 3rd place, their very best result of the season. This race also marked the first event for the new, normally aspirated V8 motor, the “VK45DE”, introduced in the MOTUL AUTECH Z (#22, Michael Krumm / Richard Lyons). The aim was to win the Team Championship title, but with the car starting from 9th on the grid and finishing in 6th, it won points, but came runner-up in the Teams battle. The weather on race day was fine, with the temperature at 18 C at its highest and a track temperature of 26 C. 46,300 spectators visited the track on the day.

Masataka Yanagida was the start driver for the #24 Z, and he managed to avoid a series of accidents at the start of the race, improving his position to 3rd on lap 5. He kept a steady gap between the car ahead until returning to the pits on lap 26 to hand over to Seiji Ara. Ara then drove the long 40-lap stint to the end, pressured from behind by the #35 SC430. The two cars constantly fought for position from lap 50, and on the final section of the final lap, the #24 succeeded in pushing through the gap. But right before the main straight, the #35 took over again, and ran across the finish line just ahead. The crowed was on its feet witnessing the intense battle, and applauded loudly as the cars crossed the line together. The performance won Seiji Ara the “Exciting Driver Award”.

The #22 MOTUL AUTECH Z, burdened from the 80kg handicap weight on board, was blocked by the cars involved in the accident at the Dunlop corner on the opening lap, and returned to the main straight in 11th. However, Michael Krumm was keen on seeking his opportunity to recover the position, and was back up to 7th on lap 13. Richard Lyons took over the car on lap 27 and moved up to 5th. However, he then had an accident with the #3 Z at the 1st corner on lap 33, dropping to 7th. The #3 Z was given a penalty for the incident, and the #22 Z immediately moved up to 6th. In spite of further attempts to pursue other cars in front, Lyons finished the race in 6th place.

The YellowHat YMS TOMICA Z (#3, Naoki Yokomizo / Joao Paulo de Oliveira) started the race from 3rd on the grid and finished 8th, while the XANAVI NISMO Z (#23, Satoshi Motoyama / Tsugio Matsuda) and the CALSONIC IMPUL Z (#12, Benoit Treluyer / Kazuki Hoshino), which started from 12th and 14th respectively, were both burdened by heavy handicap weights and finished well down the order.

“There is so much remorse for not meeting our fans’ expectations and winning the Championship,” said Yoshitaka Iijima, Team Director at NISMO. “We regret the accident of the #22 Z, because Richard had started so well. However, when our new chassis is completed – to mate with our new engine, we know for sure that we will be very competitive. We are aiming to take back the title next season. Thank you all for your support throughout this season.”

“Our team started from scratch,” recalled Masahiko Kondo, Team Director of KONDO Racing. “But our final round was such a good way to finish the season, we know what to expect next year. The drivers and the whole team fought well, and Yokohama Tires gave us the support we needed. I am very grateful to our fans. Thank you very much!”

Seiji Ara, driver of the #24 Z said, “During the battle in the last few laps, I pushed really hard because I wanted to be ahead. We couldn’t win, but the Fairlady Z and Yokohama Tires were very reliable. I joined the team from the middle of the season, but I am so glad we have accomplished what we did today. I am really happy about it.”

Mazda Reports Strong First Half Financial Results

2006-11-02T12:25:00.000+09:00

- Operating Profit up 43 Percent Year-on-Year -
- Full-year outlook revised upwards in the final year of the Mazda Momentum plan -

- First-half consolidated sales revenue up 13 percent year-on-year to 1.52 trillion yen.
- Consolidated operating profit up 43 percent to 69.8 billion yen.
- Full-year operating profit outlook revised upwards to 148 billion yen.

HIROSHIMA, Japan—Mazda Motor Corporation today announced that its fiscal year 2006 full-year forecast was being revised upwards based on record levels of consolidated revenue, operating profit and ordinary profit that were reached in the first half of FY2006.

FY2006 First Half Results
Mazda's consolidated revenue increased 13 percent in the April-September period to 1.52 trillion yen. In spite of a rapid rise in the cost of raw materials, consolidated operating profit rose 43 percent year-on-year to 69.8 billion yen, a 21 billion yen improvement, largely supported by an improved model mix and volume, favorable currency exchange rates and cost reductions. Ordinary profit increased by 31 percent to 56.6 billion yen compared to the same period last year. Net income was 27.2 billion yen, down 12 percent year-on-year, due to an extraordinary gain during the first half of the last fiscal year from the transfer of the substitutional portion of Mazda's employee pension fund liabilities to the Japanese government. Excluding the one-time impact of the gain from the pension fund transfer and impairment losses, net income was up 18 percent.

On a geographic basis, despite steady micro-mini sales in Japan, Mazda's sales volume during the first half of FY2006 declined by 7 percent to 131,000 units, mainly due to diminished demand for registered vehicles. In the US market, sales volumes increased 3 percent to 142,000 units, attributable to the newly-launched Mazda CX-7 and contributions from the Mazda5 and MX-5 models. Strong sales of the Mazda5 and MX-5 in Europe led to 151,000 units sold there during the April-September period, an increase of 10 percent year-on-year. Sales in China declined 8 percent to 62,000 units in the first half amid a very competitive sales environment. Overall, Mazda recorded 560,000 consolidated global wholesales for the first half of FY2006, up 1 percent over last year.

Full-year Profit Projections for FY2006 revised upwards
Mazda is now forecasting a rise of 3 percent in global wholesales to 1.18 million units in FY2006 following a downward revision since the last financial projections were released. Consolidated revenue is projected to increase by 8 percent year-on-year to 3.15 trillion yen, with full-year operating profit expected to rise 20 percent to 148 billion yen, and consolidated net income up 23 percent to 82 billion yen.

Mazda Senior Managing Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer David E. Friedman said, “We are pleased to report a one percent increase in Mazda's operating margins in the first half, to 4.6 percent, reflecting the impact of an improved model mix in markets around the globe. Although we anticipate an even more competitive operating environment in the second half, opportunities such as the launch of the Mazda CX-7 in Japan and the introduction of the CX-9 in North America will ensure our product-led growth continues on track as we execute the last phase of the Mazda Momentum plan.”

FY2006 Financial Projections: Sales revenue: 3.15 trillion yen, up 230.2 billion (8 percent) on FY2005
Operating profit: 148.0 billion yen, up 24.6 billion yen (20 percent) on FY2005
Ordinary profit: 140.0 billion yen, up 38.5 billion yen (38 percent) on FY2005
Net income: 82.0 billion yen, up 15.3 billion yen (23 percent) on FY2005

Notes:
Financial results
-Dollar equivalents compiled at 117.90 yen to the dollar (Exchange rate prevailing on Sept.30, 2006).
-Euro equivalents compiled at 149.82 yen to the Euro (Exchange rate prevailing on Sept.30, 2006).

ASIMO Offers South Africa’s School Children a Glimpse of the Future

2006-10-31T12:41:00.000+09:00

Science was brought to ‘life’ for hundreds of South African school children when they came face to face with ASIMO, the world’s most advanced humanoid robot. ASIMO met the students during a series of specially arranged shows, which were organized by Honda South Africa to help raise interest in science and engineering amongst the regions’ school children. The shows were held at Honda’s stand at Auto Africa in Johannesburg, the country’s premier motor show.
During each performance ASIMO highlighted the importance of engineering and science to society and offered encouragement to the students to play an active role in shaping their own future.

The event was organized in conjunction with Honda Finance, The Star, South Africa’s daily newspaper, and the DINALEDI Focus Schools Project, which aims to increase the number and performance of children in South Africa studying mathematics and physical science, especially girls and the disadvantaged.

In total 1,200 school children and their teachers attended the shows and each received a maths and science themed ‘Study Buddy’ teaching aid.

Hiroaki Shibata, Managing Director, Honda South Africa said: “These educational shows are a great opportunity to show to young people in South Africa the exciting challenges they could face through a career in science and engineering. ASIMO demonstrates the diverse and revolutionary projects children could become involved in and I hope it inspires more young children to realize that science and engineering can be fun.”

HONDA RC212V Unveiling

2006-10-31T12:40:00.002+09:00

The next generation of MotoGP machine is here in the shape of the Honda RC212V racing prototype. Built to conform to the new-for-2007 Grand Prix rules, the bike features an 800cc, V4 engine and a stunning all-new chassis built with mass centralization and ultimate handling in mind. Welcome to the future…
Basic Concept "Reading the rider's mind"

Takanori Okuma, the Honda R&D RC212V Large Project Leader, explains the principles behind the RC212V:

“When we started development of the 800cc machine, effectively the "second generation" of Honda MotoGP bike, we gave top priority to the pursuit of excellent handling and drivability. For the newly-reduced engine capacity of 800cc, we decided a V4 was the most efficient layout. Rather than focusing solely on top end power, we also concentrated on producing good power delivery characteristics, which can have a significant effect on lap times. Using enhanced control systems, the result is an engine with good drivability in the low and mid ranges, and excellent power under acceleration when the engine is at the top of its range.

“On the chassis side, we further enhanced the "mass concentration" package developed for the RC211V to improve the agility and quick handling characteristics of the bike. The outward appearance is aggressive and appropriately innovative for a new generation of bike, affording both drivability and aerodynamic efficiency. We will continue to evolve the bike before the season opener and throughout next season.”

Satoru Horiike, Managing Director of HRC comments:

“We are satisfied with the progress of the RC212V prototype. Under the leadership of Takanori Okuma, the project team has remained well on schedule with the development and testing programme set by HRC. We are confident that winter testing will be positive and look forward to being competitive in this exciting new era for MotoGP.”

Technical Specifications
Overall length (mm) 2050
Overall width (mm) 645
Overall height (mm) 1125
Wheelbase (mm) 1440
Road clearance (mm) 125
Weight (kg) over 148kg
Engine type liquid-cooled four-stroke DOHC 4 valve V-4
Displacement (cc) 800
Maximum power N/A
Frame type twin-tube
Front Wheels (inch) 16.5
Rear Wheels (inch) 16.5
Front Suspension Telescopic fork
Rear Suspension New Unit Pro-link
Fuel tank capacity (litre) 21

Honda Reveals Customized Concepts for Civic, Fit and CR-V at 2006 SEMA Show

2006-10-31T12:40:00.001+09:00

More than 15 Honda project and concept vehicles made worldwide debuts at the 2006 Specialty Equipment Market Association's (SEMA) show in Las Vegas, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced.
Honda revealed a prototype Civic MUGEN Si Sedan equipped with a high performance suspension, aerodynamic body styling and a sport exhaust system. In addition to the MUGEN vehicle, Honda Factory Performance (HFP) showed its new lineup of dealer-installed accessories for the new-for-2007 Honda Civic Si Sedan.

"The Honda Civic MUGEN Si Sedan elevates the already-impressive Civic Si Sedan into new performance territory," said John Mendel, senior vice president of American Honda. "Performance and racing are part of Honda's heritage and the Civic MUGEN Si Sedan along with the rest our vehicles at SEMA demonstrate that passion."

In addition, Honda-customized concept vehicles included the Honda Fit Sport Extreme Concept and Sport Concept CR-V with custom versions of accessory body kits, interior accessories and wheels. A Honda Element-D drift racecar also debuted with a radical powertrain consisting of a 500-horsepower V6 and rear-wheel-drive. Project vehicles built by aftermarket accessory companies on display included numerous Fits, Civics, an S2000 and a customized off-road racing Ridgeline.

Honda's announcements at SEMA coincide with the on-sale date of the new-for-2007 Civic Si Sedan. The Civic Si Sedan embraces the style and performance of the Civic Si Coupe and marks the first time that "Si" performance has become available in a sedan body style. Similar to the existing Civic Si Coupe, the Civic Si Sedan serves as another performance halo for the Civic line-up with a 197-horsepower, 16-valve, DOHC 2.0 liter i-VTEC(R) 4-cylinder engine with an 8,000 rpm redline - all mated to a close-ratio, 6-speed manual transmission and a helical-type, limited slip differential.

Honda Civic MUGEN Si Sedan
The name MUGEN symbolizes Honda performance throughout Asia and around the globe. MUGEN, under license by M-TEC Co., Ltd., of Japan, has been closely associated with Honda for decades in the design and manufacture of racing and premium performance components. The Civic MUGEN Si Sedan draws inspiration from a "Formula Sport" concept, adding an aggressive dimension of performance to the Civic Si Sedan with a track-tuned suspension, aerodynamic body styling and a performance exhaust system. The track tuned suspension, tested at the Twin Ring Motegi racing circuit in Japan, lowers the vehicle by 0.6 inches (15mm) with highly aggressive spring and damper tuning for enhanced handling performance. The full-vehicle aero-package adds a front spoiler and sports grille, side spoilers, a rear diffuser and a rear wing. The lightweight MUGEN forged alloy wheels measure 18x7.5 inches and are shod with high grip 215/40R18 summer tires. The sports exhaust system reduces back pressure from the catalytic converter back resulting in an enhanced power curve. Additional accoutrements include front and rear MUGEN emblems along with a serial number placard on the instrument panel. A spherical 50 mm MUGEN aluminum shift knob replaces the standard aluminum and perforated leather shift knob. Planned for production in a limited quantity of 500 units a year, the Civic MUGEN Si will be available at U.S. Honda dealers starting in spring 2007 with a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of less than $30,000 and includes a full factory warranty.

Honda Factory Performance (HFP) Civic Si Sedan
As a dealer installed accessory, Honda's in-house HFP products carry the same 3-year/36,000 mile bumper-to-bumper warranty as the rest of the vehicle and are designed to genuinely enhance the ownership experience. Similar to the Civic Si Coupe HFP package on sale since spring 2006, the Civic Si Sedan HFP package includes a wide range of performance- and style-enhancing products. High-performance springs reduce ride height by about one-inch and lower the vehicle's roll center. High-performance dampers enhance road handling characteristics and decrease body roll. Larger wheels and tires include 18x7 alloy wheels (plus 1-inch diameter) designed for high-performance 215/40ZR-18 tires (sold separately). A chrome sport muffler emphasizes performance and enhances engine sound. A full aerodynamic body kit (front, sides and rear) further elevates the style quotient of the entire vehicle. Interior and exterior HFP emblems complement the package. The HFP package for the Civic Si Sedan goes on sale in the spring of 2007 with an estimated MSRP of $3,800 plus installation (estimated at 5.6 hours). HFP components can also be purchased individually. American Honda launched its performance accessory program in 2002 with the introduction of a Honda Factory Performance package for the Civic EX Coupe.

Fit Sport Extreme Concept
Envisioned as an entry-level performance car, the Scorched Orange Metallic and matte black Fit Sport Extreme Concept features an aerodynamically styled front bumper fascia with carbon fiber components along with HID fog lights and LED daytime running lights. Large fender flares and low, aggressive side skirts accent its ultra-low profile. A rear carbon fiber diffuser with a center exhaust outlet along with an extended rear aero wing helps enhance style and high-speed downforce. The factory Japan Domestic Market (JDM) rear LED taillights and side mirrors with integrated turn signals further accent the high-tech feel of the vehicle. An advanced, track-tuned suspension package lowers the Fit Sport Extreme Concept ride height and enhances the vehicle's handling dynamics. Brembo(R) brake components on all four wheels provide amazing levels of stopping force.

Graphite black wheels (17 inch) incorporate Bridgestone Potenza RE-01R tires (215/45R-17). Interior modifications focus on the creation of a high-tech, performance-oriented driving environment with carbon fiber accents that match the exterior styling. The interior features custom Recaro sport seats with Civic Si-style synthetic suede. A dashboard-mounted prototype portable navigation system accessory is also shown.

Sport Concept CR-V
Following the theme of "urban sport," the Sport Concept CR-V is designed to increase the athletic feel of the already sophisticated CR-V. Highlights include aerodynamically styled front and rear bumpers along with a sports suspension package that lowers the Sport Concept CR-V for a customized presence. Custom 19-inch wheels are shod with Bridgestone Potenza tires (245/45R19). Interior modifications focus on the creation of a high-tech, performance-oriented driving environment with the addition of Civic Si synthetic suede fabric on the seating surfaces. Carbon fiber trim panels further accent the interior. Outside, the Sport Concept CR-V is painted in Agile Blue.

Honda Element-D
The Honda Element-D ("D" for drifting) racecar shows what can happen when enthusiastic Honda associates raid the company parts bin. Built for the racing sport of drifting, the Honda Element-D racecar replaces the stock 4-cylinder/Real Time(TM) 4WD drivetrain with a custom-designed and longitudinally-mounted 3.2-liter Honda V6 and rear-wheel-drive. Producing 500-horsepower, the lightweight twin-turbocharged powerhouse is guaranteed to light up the rear tires and accelerate sideways at full opposite lock. Associates from Honda R&D Americas, Inc., in Ohio plan to campaign the Element-D in the 2007 Formula Drift Series.

Tuner Project Vehicles Displayed at the Honda Booth

AEM/Memphis Car Audio Drift S2000 A&L Racing Element SC

SCORE Ridgeline Racing Super Street Magazine Fit of Fury

Thunderhill Civic Si Racecar DSO Eyewear Element

DVS/Drag Cartel "Get In Where You Fit In" Fit King Motorsports Super Fit

Forever Orange Fit by Ryan Shutt Hasport Civic Sedan

Skunk2 Racing Fit R TJIN Edition Unique Fit

H&R Springs Fit Sport

Hannes Grobler Wins Fourth Off Road Championship

2006-10-31T12:40:00.000+09:00

Hannes Grobler and Francois Jordaan, driving the Proudly South African Nissan Navara, clinched their second Absa Off Road Championship with one round remaining when they crossed the finish line of the Toyota Dealer 400 in Lydenburg on Saturday in second place, 18 seconds behind the winners, team-mates Duncan Vos and Ralph Pitchford.

In a stunning display of controlled performance and rugged reliability the three-car class SP Nissan Motorsport team of Vos, Pitchford, Grobler/Jordaan and Mark Corbett/Juan Mohr (Century Property Developments Navara) finished a commanding 1-2-3 after more than 400 km of bruising cross-country racing in the Mpumalanga highveld.

Vos, the 2002 drivers’ champion, and Pitchford, the defending co-drivers’ champion, started Saturday’s 374-km race in second place, 19 seconds behind team-mates Grobler and Jordaan, who won Friday’s 32-km prologue.

They assumed the lead when Grobler encountered problems with his power steering 20 km out of the compulsory stop at the Lydenburg designated service point. The Nissan Motorsport team replaced an oil pipe that had rubbed through on the steering rack causing Grobler’s loss of power-assisted steering. After grueling 406-km event, Vos and Pitchford won this race in a time of 6 hr 1 min 54 sec. With its second all-Nissan podium in three years, Nissan won the manufacturers’ team prize.

It was the company’s 36th win from 47 events since Nissan turned to off road racing after dominating the South Africa touring car championship for four years, and it was the company’s sixth successive national off road championship.

For the genial Grobler, who has been competing exclusively in Datsuns and Nissans for almost 30 years and is something of a motor racing legend in his own lifetime, it was his fourth national off road championship and his second with good friend Jordaan (they also won in 2004). Jordaan was also champion in 2001 when he partnered Giniel de Villiers in a Proudly South African Nissan Hardbody.

“Congratulations to Hannes on his fourth championship win and also to Duncan on a great victory today,” said a jubilant Glyn Hall, inspirational general manager of Nissan Motorsport and a former national rally champion. “To finish 1-2-3 is always a team dream and I have to thank all my colleagues at Nissan Motorsport team, who have worked tirelessly and often late into the night, on weekdays and over weekends, for this great achievement” The final round is the Carnival City 400 in Gauteng on November 18.

Mazda Starts Production of the CX-9, its Second Crossover SUV for the North American Market

2006-10-30T12:25:00.000+09:00

Mazda Motor Corporation today held a ‘line-off’ ceremony for the CX-9 crossover sport-utility vehicle (SUV) being built for the North American market at the Ujina Plant No.1 near its global headquarters in Hiroshima. Hisakazu Imaki, Mazda's representative director, chairman of the board, president and CEO, along with approximately 450 staff—comprised of several senior executives, union representatives and employees—attended this ceremony. The Mazda CX-9 will be arriving in North American showrooms in early 2007.

“The CX-9 will be the latest addition to Mazda's product lineup in the all-important North American market, joining the Mazda CX-7, which went on sale there in May”, said Hisakazu Imaki. “CX-9 is a key model aimed at raising the visibility of Mazda in North America and will be an integral part of building the brand. Furthermore, to keep on providing the best Zoom-Zoom products that will exceed our customers' expectations around the globe, we must continue our efforts as 'One Mazda' to build even higher-quality vehicles.”

The Mazda CX-9 is a seven-seat crossover SUV designed and engineered specifically for the North American market. The CX-9 showcases Mazda's unique design and strong, dynamic driving performance as well as an up-market interior with class-leading space and unmatched versatility. The CX-9 debuted at the New York International Auto Show in April 2006, earning high marks for its versatility and remarkable styling that makes a clean break from traditional medium-sized SUVs.

New Mitsubishi Motors mono-box minivan to be branded "Delica D:5"

2006-10-30T12:21:00.000+09:00

Mitsubishi Motors today announced that its new mono-box minivan will be branded the "Delica D:5" (pronounced "dee five") for launch in the Japan market early in 2007.

Mitsubishi Motors' plans for FY2006 included three new model launches in its domestic market. The first was the double launch of the new eK Wagon and eK Sports in September 2006, and the second was the new Pajero in October 2006. Both have been a big hit with customers, and further success is expected with the Delica D:5, the third of the planned model launches.

The D:5 name derives from this being the fifth generation Delica in a series that began when Mitsubishi Motors led the mono-box market by launching its first model in 1968. The Delica D:5 has been developed to "fuse the comfort of a minivan with the powerful performance of an SUV," in a new model with three specific product characteristics:

- Spacious interior that can seat 8 in comfort, with a wide variety of utility features,
- Strong body structure with comprehensive safety fittings and great environmental performance,
- High all-round performance, on-road and off-road, thanks to a 2.4L MIVEC engine mated to an electronically controlled 4WD system.

JAPANESE CARS TODAY

The news of sight moving opening

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Mazda Carol Gets a Facelift

Toyota Announces Results for November 2006

Honda Sets Monthly Record for Worldwide, Japan Domestic, and Overseas Auto production

Nissan Production, Sales and Export Results for Nov. 2006

NISSAN’S HR15DE ENGINE COMBINED WITH XTRONIC CVT AVAILABLE IN SIX COMPACT CARS

Mazda Production and Sales Results for November 2006

Mitsubishi Motors Announces Production, Sales and Exports for November 2006

Toyota President K. Watanabe's address at year-end press conference

Toyota Announces Sales/Production Plans for 2007

Mazda Unveils Special Edition Roadster for the Japanese Market

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Nissan Introduces All-New AD/AD Expert Models

HONDA Summary of 2006 Year-End CEO Speech

2006 Honda SALES & PRODUCTION FORECAST

Honda to Build a New Engine Plant in Japan

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Mazda Launches New Crossover SUV Mazda CX-7 in Japan

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HONDA ASIMO Debuts in UK Advertising Campaign

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YAMAHA ASEAN CUP 2006

Daihatsu Announces New SUV for Indonesia

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Toyota to Hold 70th Anniversary Commemorative Concerts with Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra

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Toyota Expands Exports From Indonesia

NISSAN ANNOUNCES “NISSAN GREEN PROGRAM 2010”

Nissan Rogue Crossover SUV and Nissan Bevel Concept Set

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YAMAHA New Sales System for Motorcycles and Other Land Vehicles in Japan

Toyota Holds Ceremony Commemorating First Presentation

Honda Accord Coupe Concept to Debut at North American International Auto Show

SUBARU Forester is an Australian Best Car

NISSAN QASHQAI QUEUED UP FOR PRODUCTION

Subaru sets November record

Honda Motor India Commences Operations, Beginning with HSCI Parts Operations

Honda Establishes Solar Cell Subsidiary Company, Honda Soltec to Make Full-Scale Entry into Solar Cell Business

Next Mazda Sub-Compact Car For Europe to Be Produced in HIROSHIMA, Japan

Toyota to Conduct Road Tests of Vehicle-infrastructure Cooperative Systems that upport Safe Driving

Acura 'Advanced Sedan Concept' Debuts at Los Angeles Auto Show

Honda FCX Concept on Display at Los Angeles Auto Show

Honda REMIX Concept Shines Brightly at Los Angeles Auto Show

Live Large in the Compact Honda Step Bus Concept

Nissan Thailand to export Tiida to Australia

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SUBARU Growth in airbags makes new cars safer

Toyota Announces Results for October 2006

Honda Achieves Record Monthly Worldwide, Domestic and Overseas Auto Production

Nissan Production, Sales, Export Results for October

Mazda Production and Sales Results for October 2006

Mitsubishi Motors Announces Production, Sales and Exports for October 2006

Mazda launches Special Edition 'Demio' and 'Axela Sport' Models

Nissan Introduces All-New Skyline

" i " takes "Most Advanced Technology" Special Achievement Award in the Car of the Year Japan 2006-2007

Mitsubishi Motors lineup at 2006 Beijing Motor Show

Toyota Begins Tundra Production at Texas Plant

New Corolla, Lexus RX400h to Highlight Toyota's Largest Beijing Motor Show Display

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Nissan R383 Hits the Road for the first time

NISSAN DEVELOPS ALL-NEW CONSULT-III DIAGNOSIS SYSTEM

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Honda and Yachiyo Strengthen Capital Ties

HONDA　Summary of 2006 Year-End CEO Speech

HONDA　ASIMO Debuts in UK Advertising Campaign

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